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Related Subjects: |Major Histocompatibility complex |Blotting Techniques: Gel Electrophoresis
Blotting is a core technique in molecular biology used to detect specific macromolecules (DNA, RNA, or proteins) in a sample. It typically follows gel electrophoresis , which separates molecules based on size and charge, allowing for individual fragment analysis.
Gel Electrophoresis separates macromolecules (DNA/RNA, proteins) based on size and charge:
Different blotting methods detect specific macromolecules, each using unique approaches and probes to identify target sequences or structures:
Blot Type | Target Molecule | Description |
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Southern Blot | DNA | Detects specific DNA sequences. Involves restriction enzyme digestion, gel electrophoresis, and hybridization with a labelled DNA probe. |
Northern Blot | RNA | Detects specific RNA sequences, useful for studying gene expression levels. |
Western Blot | Proteins | Used to identify specific proteins. Employs antibodies as probes to detect target proteins, with applications in diagnostics and research. |
Eastern Blot | Protein Modifications | Detects post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation or phosphorylation of proteins. |
Southwestern Blot | Protein-DNA Interactions | Studies interactions between proteins and DNA, for example, transcription factors binding to DNA. |
Named after Dr. Edwin Southern, this technique detects specific DNA sequences.
Similar to Southern blotting but used for RNA detection, allowing for the study of gene expression.
Used to detect specific proteins, with wide applications in research and diagnostics, such as detecting protein mutations in diseases:
Blotting techniques are vital tools in molecular biology and medicine, enabling detailed analysis of genetic information, gene expression, and protein structure. They are integral in diagnostics, research, and the study of disease mechanisms.