Explain how amino acids could be identified using gel electrophoresis

The sample of amino acids is placed in the center of a polyacrylamide gel, across which a voltage is applied. Depending on the pH of the buffer, the amino acids will move at different rates towards either the positive or negative electrodes . Amino acids will stop moving once they have reached their isoelectric point- the pH at which amino acids have no overall charge. When separation is complete, the amino acids are sprayed with ninhydrin and can be identified by comparing the distance traveled with known standards. 

EH
Answered by Eleanor H. Biology tutor

12417 Views

See similar Biology IB tutors

Related Biology IB answers

All answers ▸

Describe blood circulation from the heart to the rest of the body


Which protein structure is broken down due to denaturalization: primary, secondary, tertiary or quaternary?


Saccharomyces is a microscopic eukaryote. Explain the use of Saccharomyces in beer production.


Describe the process of DNA translation


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning