Introduction
Electrophoresis is a technique used in biochemistry and molecular biology to separate molecules based on their size and charge. This process relies on the movement of charged particles in an electric field, allowing for the analysis of DNA, RNA, proteins, and other biomolecules.
Principles of Electrophoresis
Electrophoresis works on the principle that charged particles will move towards opposite charges in an electric field. The speed of movement is determined by the size and charge of the molecules being separated.
Types of Electrophoresis
- Agarose gel electrophoresis
- Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
- Capillary electrophoresis
Applications of Electrophoresis
Electrophoresis is used in various fields including forensics, molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics. It is essential for DNA fingerprinting, protein analysis, and disease diagnosis.
Case Study: DNA Fingerprinting
In forensic science, electrophoresis is used to create DNA profiles for criminal investigations. By analyzing the unique patterns of DNA fragments, investigators can identify individuals with high accuracy.
Statistics
According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, electrophoresis is employed in over 90% of molecular biology laboratories worldwide.
