Category
Molecular Biology Laboratory
Typical Use
Separate nucleic acids or proteins by size for analysis and verification.
Description
An apparatus comprising a gel casting tray, electrophoresis chamber, power supply, and imaging system used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins under an electric field for visualization, size estimation, and quality control in research and diagnostic workflows. Gel electrophoresis supports applications such as PCR product verification, restriction fragment analysis, and protein profiling, and requires appropriate staining, imaging, and documentation to interpret results accurately. Safety considerations include handling of ethidium bromide or alternative stains, proper electrical precautions, and waste disposal protocols. While increasingly complemented by automated platforms, gel electrophoresis remains a versatile and accessible technique for molecular laboratories.