is a fundamental laboratory technique used to separate macromolecules—specifically DNA, RNA, and proteins—based on their size and electrical charge . By applying an electric field to a buffered medium, scientists can "sort" complex biological mixtures into distinct bands, making it an indispensable tool in genetics, forensics, and clinical diagnostics. How It Works
Electrophoresis is the backbone of several critical scientific fields:
The standard method for separating DNA fragments, often used after a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to verify results.
Used for proteins. The detergent SDS unfolds the proteins and gives them a uniform negative charge, ensuring they are separated strictly by length rather than shape.
The process relies on the principle that many biological molecules possess an electrical charge. When placed in an electric field, these molecules migrate toward the electrode with the opposite charge.