Question

Write a short note on Gel Electrophoresis.

Answer 1

Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size. When DNA is cut into fragments by restriction enzymes, these fragments are placed in an agarose gel, a medium derived from seaweed, which acts as a molecular sieve. Under an electric field, negatively charged DNA fragments migrate towards the positive electrode (anode), with smaller fragments moving faster through the gel matrix than larger ones. After separation, the DNA bands are stained with a dye called ethidium bromide and visualized under UV light as bright orange bands. This technique is crucial for identifying and isolating specific DNA fragments for further genetic analysis and recombinant DNA technology. The separated DNA can then be extracted from the gel and used for cloning or other molecular biology procedures.