Ultra-fast high-resolution agarose electrophoresis of DNA and RNA using low-molarity conductive media

Jonathan R. Brody, Eric S. Calhoun, Eike Gallmeier, Talisa D. Creavalle, Scott E. Kern

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

Current DNA electrophoretic solutions employ high ionic concentrations and require long electrophoretic run times. Here we demonstrate that high and low molecular weight double-stranded DNA, single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), and RNA can be separated rapidly in agarose-based low-molarity conductive media. Separation of small DNA fragments was optimized by substituting 1-mM solutions of alkali metals or a nonbiological amine that distributed voltage with a minute current. These ultra-dilute solutions can separate DNA at least 15-fold faster. Low-molarity media at 5-10 mM adequately separated RNA and larger DNA fragments as well. These novel media reduce the Joule heating of the electrophoretic system and allow for easy-to-use, ultra-fast separation of DNA fragments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)598-602
Number of pages5
JournalBioTechniques
Volume37
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2004
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biotechnology
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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