Gel Electrophoresis Worksheet

Before Gel Electrophoresis, separation of small molecules was impossible. Today Gel Electrophoresis is the primary method of separating molecules. The ability to separate has greatly improved forensics. paternity/maternity tests, and many other useful tests. Prosecutors being able to prove that a crime was committed because of DNA instead of testimony has improved the criminal justice system greatly.
Oliver Smithies developed Gel Electrophoresis in 1950. To separate molecules an electric current is applied to a gel containing biological specimen. Mixtures are placed in wells in the gel. When a current is applied molecules move and split corresponding to the molecules shape, charge, and size. Smaller molecules will move faster through the gel,

Depending on the type of electrophoresis units available, assemble the unit according to the teacher’s instructions with the end damn in place.
2. Place the electrophoresis unit in a horizontal position on a level table or countertop.
3. Place the “Gel Drawing Worksheet” on the counter horizontally next to or below the electrophoresis unit. The small rectangles on the paper correspond to the wells in the gel. Number the wells on the paper from #1 at the top to #6 at the bottom.
4. Gently slide a gel from a zipper-lock bag into the casting tray and between the end dams. Remove the end dams.
5. Withdraw 10 μL of dye from each microcentrifuge tube by filling only the needle tip of the pipet. Note: Fill the tip by squeezing the pipet just above the tip, not the bulb. Use a clean pipet for each dye sample to avoid contaminating the pure samples. Dispense a sample of each dye into a different well in the gel. Record the name and well of each dye in the data table.
6. Place the lid on the chamber and connect it to the power supply according to teacher instructions. Allow electrophoresis to proceed for 20-25 minutes at 70 V before turning off the power.
7. When the power is off, remove the cover with the help of a ruler, carefully remove the gel from the chamber and put it on a piece of a paper