What causes different linear DNA molecules to migrate at different speeds during electrophoresis?

Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Course List)
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305251052
Author:Michael Cummings
Publisher:Michael Cummings
Chapter15: Genomes And Genomics
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 6QP: Which of the following best describes the process of DNA sequencing? a. DNA is separated on a gel,...
icon
Related questions
icon
Concept explainers
Question

What causes different linear DNA molecules to migrate at different speeds during electrophoresis?

Expert Solution
Step 1

In molecular biology many techniques are used for different purpose like PCR is used to generate multiple copies of a DNA segment, blotting, microarray, cloning, gel electrophoresis, Southern blotting, western blotting, northern blotting, allele-specific oligonucleotide, chromatography, array and many more each technique has their particular function.

Step 2

Electrophoresis is a process where charged particles move under the influence of the electric field. It is a method to separate charged particles like RNA, DNA, proteins, and other charged particles. Separation based on charge and size.

In-gel electrophoresis, the DNA fragments are repelled from the negative pole of the electric field and attracted to the positive pole. This is because of the phosphate group present in the DNA molecule which is negatively charged. So, when DNA placed in an electric field in gel electrophoresis, DNA fragments will migrate to the positively charged anode.

These attractions and repulsions important to the process because these allow smaller DNA fragments being arranged in order of size or smaller DNA fragment can reach positively charged anode firstly and arrange in order of size.

steps

Step by step

Solved in 3 steps

Blurred answer
Knowledge Booster
Molecular techniques
Learn more about
Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, biology and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.
Similar questions
  • SEE MORE QUESTIONS
Recommended textbooks for you
Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Co…
Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Co…
Biology
ISBN:
9781305251052
Author:
Michael Cummings
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Human Biology (MindTap Course List)
Human Biology (MindTap Course List)
Biology
ISBN:
9781305112100
Author:
Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Publisher:
Cengage Learning