logo
logo
Sign in
avatar
Challenge Magazine
WHAT IS SDS-PAGE?

In laboratories, the technique known as SDS-PAGE is frequently utilized for the purpose of separating proteins according to their respective molecular weights.

It is one of those methods that is routinely utilized but not always completely understood by the person doing so. Let’s make an attempt to rectify that situation by discussing the operation of the SDS-PAGE. The more you understand the technique, the better!

Here’s what you need to know:


One of the first things you should know about SDS-PAGE is that it typically works by separating proteins based on their molecular weight. This is achieved by taking use of the varying rates at which various proteins move through a sieving matrix in response to an applied electrical field.

Any charged species’ path through an electric field is determined by three factors: the species’ net charge, the species’ molecular radius, and the field strength. However, the issue with natively folded proteins is that the net charge or the radius of the molecule doesn’t depend on the molecular weight.

A protein’s net charge is determined by its molecular radius, which is set by its tertiary structure, and its amino acid composition, which can be written as the sum of the protein’s negative and positive amino acids.

Proteins of the same molecular weight but different charges and three-dimensional forms would, therefore, flow through an electric field at different rates depending on the strength of the field in its natural state.

Proteins cannot be separated in an electric field according to their molecular weight alone unless their tertiary structure is first disrupted by reducing it to a linear molecule, and then the intrinsic net charge of the protein is disguised. This is when the SDS comes into play. Find out more at our website.


Challenge Magazine is an online magazine with tips, tricks, and posts to help you get back on track to living a remarkable life. Rearrange your finances, revitalize your health, transform your career, and much more, with the help of an honest, relaxed, and easy to put into practice, online magazine. Follow us on Facebook and visit our website for informational articles on trending topics.


collect
0
avatar
Challenge Magazine
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more