The document discusses gel documentation systems, which are essential in molecular biology for imaging nucleic acids and proteins in gels. It details the principle of operation, advantages such as efficiency and reduced use of harmful chemicals, as well as disadvantages like cost. The document also outlines the components of the systems and their applications in experiments like gel electrophoresis and membrane blotting.

1. BOOMIKA.S
I MSc microbiology
Reg. No: BP231517
GEL DOCUMENTATION
SYSTEM

2. Gel Documentation System
INTRODUCTION:
 Also known as a gel documentation system, gel image system or gel imager,
 equipment widely used in molecular biology laboratories for the imaging and
documentation of nucleic acid and protein suspended within polyacrylamide or
agarose gels.

3. PRINCIPLE:
Gel documentation systems or gel imaging systems are widely used in molecular
biology laboratories.
Gel documentation works in the principle of fluorescence. Nuclei acids stained
with a fluorescent(Ethidium Bromide) excited by ultraviolet irradiation & emit
fluorescent light.
 used to separate DNA fragments according to their size.
 DNA samples are loaded into wells (indentations) at one end of a gel, and an
electric current is applied to pull them through the gel.
DNA fragments are negatively charged, so they move towards the positive
electrode.

4. PURPOSE AND ANALYSIS:
Gel doc systems, also known as 'gel docs' or 'gel imagers.
Used to record and analyse the results of gel electrophoresis and membrane
blotting experiments.
These instruments are necessary for visualizing stained or labelled nucleic acids
and proteins in media such as agarose, acrylamide, or cellulose.

6. COMPONENTS OF GEL DOC.
SYSTEM:
 Source of Irradiation - UV LIGHT
 Base Plate - Tray
 Hood - Electronic auto door lock
 Filters - Amber filter
 Visible Light – Transmitted light
 Adjustable Stage – move the sample closer
 Imaging System – higher resolution camera
 Readout System – computer system

7. ADVANTAGES and DISADVANTAGES:
ADVANTAGES:
 Provides far depth information on the sample data.
 Wider linear dynamic range.
 Saves time and reduced cost.
 Fewer harmful chemicals.
Quantitative rather than qualitative data
DISADVANTAGES:
Save time, facilitate workflow convenience, and do not involve the use of harmful
chemicals. However, a disadvantage of gel-doc systems is that they are quite
expensive

8. APPLICATIONS:
 used to record and analyse the results of gel electrophoresis
 membrane blotting experiments.
 These instruments are necessary for visualizing stained or labelled nucleic acids
 proteins in media such as agarose, acrylamide, or cellulose.