FastGene Precast Protein Gels: High-Resolution PAGE Separation
FastGene Precast Protein Gels are high-performance polyacrylamide gels designed to streamline protein electrophoresis by eliminating the inconsistencies and time constraints of manual gel pouring. These gels provide a robust solution for researchers requiring reliable molecular weight determination and high-resolution banding patterns across diverse sample types, from purified proteins to complex lysates.
The gels are manufactured using a proprietary casting method in a neutral pH environment, which significantly reduces polyacrylamide hydrolysis compared to traditional Tris-Glycine systems. This formulation, based on a Bis-Tris buffer system, maintains a low operating pH during electrophoresis, effectively preventing the “smiling” effect and ensuring crisp, sharp bands with high reproducibility between runs.
Key Benefits:
- Superior Band Resolution: Neutral pH casting for crisp results. The reduced hydrolysis of the polyacrylamide matrix ensures exceptionally sharp bands and prevents protein degradation during the run.
- High Loading Capacity: Large 60 µL sample volumes. Unique wedge-shaped wells accommodate up to 3x the volume of standard precast gels, allowing for the detection of low-abundance proteins.
- Extended Shelf Life: 12-month stability. The optimised chemical formulation allows for long-term storage at 4°C without loss of performance or gel integrity.
- Broad Compatibility: Universal cassette design. These 10 x 8 cm gels are compatible with the FastGene PAGE Protein System, as well as tanks from Bio-Rad, Hoefer, and Invitrogen.
- Versatile Application: Denaturing and native PAGE. Gels are suitable for both SDS-PAGE and native electrophoresis, depending on the choice of MOPS or MES running buffers.
Technical Insights
The selection of the appropriate gel percentage is critical for optimal protein separation. Gradient gels offer a broader range of molecular weight resolution, while homogeneous gels provide high-resolution separation for proteins within a specific size range.
| Catalogue Number | Gel Type | Separation Range |
|---|---|---|
| A2-0404 | 12% Homogeneous | 6.5 kDa – 200 kDa |
| A2-0406 | 4-12% Gradient | 20 kDa – 250 kDa |
| A2-0408 | 4-20% Gradient | 10 kDa – 250 kDa |
| A2-0410 | 8-16% Gradient | 10 kDa – 200 kDa |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the composition of the precast gels? Are they comparable to traditional Tris Glycine or Bis-Tris gels?
The FastGene precast gels are based on a Bis-Tris buffer system and are 1mm thick.
How do the precast gels perform with unstable proteins? Are there special recommendations for native gels?
If the protein is heat-sensitive, the run should be conducted at 4°C. Our gels are designed for running acidic proteins under alkaline conditions. While we typically suggest a running buffer pH of 8.8, this is a starting point; users should optimise the pH for their specific targets. Note that running times may be extended under these conditions.
Which buffer can I use for these gels?
For FastGene Gels, it is necessary to use MOPS buffer. We offer this buffer as convenient dry pellets in pouches, requiring only the addition of water. MOPS buffer is also included in sample packs.
Are your gels keratin-free?
The gels are manufactured to be keratin-free, though specific QC data for this parameter is not currently available.
Do you recommend wet- or semi-dry blotting for the Precast Gels?
We recommend wet transfer, as it yields superior results compared to semi-dry methods. Typically, we add 10% Methanol to the transfer buffer; for smaller proteins, we recommend increasing the Methanol concentration to 20%.
What is the pH of the stacking and separating part of the gel?
Both the stacking and separating portions of the gel have a pH of 6.4.
Specifications
- Gel Dimensions: 10 cm x 8 cm
- Gel Thickness: 1 mm
- Well Format: 12 wells
- Maximum Loading Volume: 60 µL per well
- Buffer System: Bis-Tris (Neutral pH)
- Recommended Running Buffers: MOPS or MES
- Storage: 4°C
- Shelf Life: 12 months
- Pack Size: 10 Gels (includes cassette opener and spacers)