{"id":2321,"date":"2026-02-02T16:33:30","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T15:33:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/electrophoresis\/"},"modified":"2026-05-14T04:33:30","modified_gmt":"2026-05-14T02:33:30","slug":"electrophoresis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/electrophoresis\/","title":{"rendered":"Electrophoresis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is electrophoresis?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate charged molecules, such as DNA, RNA, or proteins, based on their size and electrical charge, using an electric field and a porous medium (gel) that acts as a sieve.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How does it work?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The sample is placed in a porous gel (agarose or polyacrylamide).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An electric current is applied:<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Negative molecules migrate toward the anode (+) and positive ones toward the cathode (-). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smaller molecules migrate faster through the gel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>This allows the separation and visualization of DNA, RNA, or protein fragments, which is essential for molecular analysis and diagnostics.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1775\" height=\"1125\" src=\"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1877\" style=\"width:800px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis.jpg 1775w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis-1024x649.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis-768x487.jpg 768w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis-1536x974.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Tamano-en-electroforesis-600x380.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1775px) 100vw, 1775px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Image 1. <\/strong>Application areas in agarose gel. Image obtained from https:\/\/genotipia.com\/electroforesis\/ <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Relevant Types of Electrophoresis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Agarose gel electrophoresis \u2013 Ideal for separating large molecules such as DNA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis \u2013 Higher resolution for smaller molecules (proteins), requires careful handling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Capillary electrophoresis \u2013 Highly efficient, requires less sample and reagents, provides digital results<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Isoelectric focusing and 2D electrophoresis \u2013High-resolution separation, useful in advanced proteomic analysis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Main Applications in Science and Medicine<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Genetics and Molecular Biology<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>\u2022 Genotyping and analysis of genetic variations \u2013 Determines variants of specific genes by comparing migration patterns with standard molecular weight markers.<\/p>\n\n<p>\u2022 Diagnosis of genetic diseases \u2013 Identification of genetic expansions, for example, trinucleotide repeat disorders.<\/p>\n\n<p>\u2022 Molecular oncology \u2013 Monitoring of microsatellite instability in tumors, a key marker in cancer.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Research and Development<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>\u2022 Verification of PCR and sequencing products \u2013 Confirmation of amplification results before sequencing or cloning.<\/p>\n\n<p>\u2022 Proteomics and protein analysis \u2013 Characterization of protein expression profiles, purity assessment, and biomarker detection.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Clinical Diagnostics and Health<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>\u2022 Serum protein or hemoglobin profiles for the diagnosis of hematological diseases, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemias.<\/p>\n\n<p>\u2022 Biomarker evaluation in infections and metabolic conditions.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Forensic Science and Paternity<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Electrophoresis is an essential tool for identifying DNA profiles, comparing them with databases, and solving forensic cases or determining parentage.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Practical Example: Analysis of Variants in the PER3 Gene<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1: DNA Sample Extraction and Preparation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>The analysis of genetic variants by electrophoresis begins with a critical step: DNA extraction and proper sample preparation. In the case of the PER3 gene, a gene associated with circadian rhythms and sleep patterns, the quality of the DNA obtained is essential to ensure reliable results in the later stages of molecular analysis. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: PCR Amplification and Sample Staining<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>At this stage, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to specifically amplify the target fragment of the PER3 gene. This procedure makes it possible to obtain millions of copies of the target DNA from a minimal initial amount, ensuring a detectable and reproducible signal in subsequent analyses. <\/p>\n\n<p>The correct selection of buffers, dNTPs, primers, enzymes, and reaction conditions is key to achieving efficient and specific amplification, reducing the appearance of nonspecific products.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3: Electrophoresis and Genetic Variant Analysis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Once the DNA has been amplified, the PCR products are analyzed by gel electrophoresis, a technique that separates fragments according to their size and allows differences between samples to be visualized. From the migration patterns obtained, it is possible to identify genetic variants, compare individuals, and validate the amplification results. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The process is carried out as follows:<\/h3>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Electrophoresis Gel Preparation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>An agarose gel is prepared with the appropriate concentration according to the expected size of the PER3 fragment. The correct formulation of the gel is key to obtaining good resolution and separation of DNA bands. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Use of Running Buffers (TAE \/ TBE)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Buffers ensure electrical conductivity and pH stability during electrophoresis, preventing distortions in DNA migration and ensuring reproducible results.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Sample Loading and Electric Field Application<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>PCR products are loaded into the gel wells together with a molecular weight marker. When the electric field is applied, DNA fragments migrate through the gel according to their size.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Separation and Resolution of DNA Fragments<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Electrophoresis separates the amplified fragments, making it easier to observe the size differences of the DNA between the analyzed samples.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 DNA Band Visualization<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Once the run is complete, DNA is visualized using specific stains and appropriate illumination systems, allowing well-defined and clearly contrasted bands to be observed.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Comparison with the Molecular Weight Marker<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>The position of the bands is compared with the marker to confirm the size of the amplified PER3 fragment and detect possible variations.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Identification of Genetic Variants<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Differences in the migration pattern allow insertions, deletions, or polymorphisms associated with the PER3 gene to be identified across different samples.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Comparative Analysis Between Individuals or Groups<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>The results obtained are compared between samples to evaluate genetic variability, population studies, or associations with specific biological characteristics.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Process Quality Control<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Electrophoresis acts as a verification tool for the complete process, allowing the quality of DNA, PCR efficiency, and reliability of the reagents used to be evaluated.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>\u2022 Relationship with Laboratory Products and Consumables<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>This step requires the use of agarose gels, electrophoresis buffers, molecular weight markers, stains, electrophoresis chambers, and documentation systems, all essential to obtain clear and reproducible results.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1775\" height=\"1125\" src=\"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1879\" style=\"width:740px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1.jpg 1775w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1-1024x649.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1-768x487.jpg 768w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1-1536x974.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Electroforesis-1-600x380.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1775px) 100vw, 1775px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Image 2: <\/strong>electrophoresis chamber. Image source: https:\/\/genotipia.com\/electroforesis\/ <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: Results Analysis:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Once migration in the gel is complete and the run is stopped, separated bands are observed, representing DNA\/RNA fragments or proteins according to the type of electrophoresis performed. These bands are visualized because the molecules have been stained with an agent that allows them to be seen under light, for example, with ethidium bromide or safer alternative stains. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What do the bands mean?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n<p>Position in the gel: the distance traveled by each band depends on the size and charge of the molecules. Smaller fragments migrate farther than larger ones.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Comparaci\u00f3n con un marcador<\/strong>: Colocar un marcador de peso molecular (o escalera) te permite estimar el tama\u00f1o de tus fragmentos comparando la ubicaci\u00f3n de tus bandas con la de los est\u00e1ndares conocidos.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Number of bands:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>A single band may indicate a single fragment present or no variation in the sample.<\/p>\n\n<p>Multiple bands suggest that there is more than one fragment or different variants in the sample.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Band intensity<\/strong>: the more intense or thicker the band, the greater the amount of that molecule present.<\/p>\n\n<p>Source: Genotipia. (s. f.). <em>Electrophoresis: what it is and what it is used for<\/em>.<u> <a href=\"https:\/\/genotipia.com\/electroforesis\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/genotipia.com\/electroforesis\/<\/a><\/u><\/p>\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is electrophoresis? Electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate charged molecules, such as DNA, RNA, or proteins, based on their size and electrical charge, using an electric field and a porous medium (gel) that acts as a sieve. How does it work? This allows the separation and visualization of DNA, RNA, or protein [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2318,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2321","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sin-categoria"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2321","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2321"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2321\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2559,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2321\/revisions\/2559"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2318"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2321"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2321"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/salvak.com.co\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2321"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}