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Important Knowledge On Gel Imaging Systems

By Nancy Lee


Gels have become cornerstones in carrying out investigations in various fields. Nevertheless, they usually involve complex and imaging processes that rely on trial and error in order to get best images. Gel imagers are widely used in laboratories in molecular biology for documentation of nucleic acid together with the protein suspended agarose gels. Gel imaging systems are used for recording and measuring stained agarose gels using a high technology digital platform.

By digitizing gels, it not only offers benefits of effective data storage and convenience but also gives an accurate way of quantifying the sample. Various instruments are normally used to quantitatively read the nucleic acid, dot blots, protein bands and microplates. Such instruments may include, ethidum bromide, fluorescence, chemiluminescence and visible light detectors. Mostly, these gel systems are usually compatible with Mac or PC operating systems and are normally acquired complete with software.

The system allows for manipulating of images for purposes of presentation and permits the convenience of storing such images. As well, dependent on compactness, detection mode, resolution, cost, and system flexibility, one can make sure that the precise fit in research by looking through assorted models in a collection of bio-compares.

Gel documentation systems have developed out of old days of blue stains and dark rooms. Presently, there are technologies that make easy documentation and simpler visualization of gel experiment results. Gels are applied in characterizing small molecules, protein in addition to DNA. When applied in DNA, they are utilized for preparation, sequencing and separation. Imaging and documentation are as well necessary in these applications.

Given the modern imaging and documentation systems, one can get more quantitative and precise results. Products available encompass a system that is all-inclusive with software and instrument. Nevertheless, in picking a system for gel documentation, you will need to consider the research requirements. For simpler applications, it is economical to have a basic system while complicated applications will require a system that has advanced features.

A gel imaging and documenting process that is digitized is usually designed to provide an analyzed result at an instant and as well images that are of high quality. Digitized processes make the examination very simple because of features like auto analysis, user preferences and auto image capture among other vital characteristic. These characteristics make an imaging system to be an important instrument for researchers.

Several benefits have been attributed to this imaging system. First, it is easy to use. Even researchers who are not more familiar with this system can easily learn to use it faster. Secondly, you are able to get quality images together with a complete data analysis. Some of the analyzed results may include bands quantification, molecular weights, PDFs and Excel reports among other results within a few minutes.

Another important benefit of this documentation system is that it saves time and space. First, you are able to get results faster without wasting so much time. On the other hand, you save valuable space on the bench by employing this compact system.




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