ProtoGel: Ultra-Pure 40% Acrylamide Solution for Consistent Protein Electrophoresis
Achieving reproducible results in SDS-PAGE and Western blotting requires a high degree of precision in gel matrix preparation. ProtoGel (40% w/v solution) provides a ready-to-use, stabilised acrylamide/bis-acrylamide concentrate that eliminates the technical variability and safety hazards associated with weighing out neurotoxic powder. By utilising an optimised 37.5:1 ratio, this solution ensures a consistent pore size that is ideal for the high-resolution separation of a broad range of protein molecular weights.
The manufacturing process for ProtoGel involves rigorous deionisation and filtration steps to remove acrylic acid and ionic contaminants, which can otherwise lead to “frowning” bands and high background interference. The result is a crystal-clear solution with extremely low conductivity, providing a stable pH environment during polymerisation. This stability ensures that the cross-linking reaction is uniform throughout the gel, leading to sharp, well-defined bands and superior transfer efficiency for downstream blotting applications.
Key Benefits:
- Optimised 37.5:1 Ratio: Standard for protein separation. This specific ratio is meticulously calibrated to provide the ideal cross-linking density for standard SDS-PAGE applications.
- Ultra-Pure Formulation: Zero background interference. Rigorously deionised to remove impurities, ensuring high-sensitivity detection and minimal interference in Western blots.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduced exposure risk. As a stabilised liquid, ProtoGel eliminates the risk of inhaling acrylamide dust, improving laboratory safety protocols.
- Long-Term Stability: Consistent performance. Specially formulated to prevent the degradation of monomers, ensuring reliable polymerisation and gel performance for up to 24 months.
Technical Insights
ProtoGel’s low acrylic acid content (typically less than 0.001%) is critical for maintaining the integrity of the buffer system during electrophoresis. High levels of acrylic acid can cause local pH shifts, which lead to inconsistent migration and poor band resolution. By maintaining an ultra-pure monomer state, ProtoGel ensures that the electrophoretic mobility of your proteins is determined solely by their size, not by matrix-induced artefacts.
Specifications
- Product Code: EC-890
- Concentration: 40% (w/v) Acrylamide/Bis-acrylamide
- Cross-link Ratio: 37.5:1
- Volume: 450ml
- Purity: Gas chromatography tested; ultra-low conductivity
- Storage Conditions: 15-30°C (Protect from light)
- Shelf Life: 24 months from date of manufacture