Gel electrophoresis is one of the most accessible ways for students to experience real molecular biology. In a classroom, students can use gel electrophoresis to investigate genetics, DNA fingerprinting, forensics, conservation biology, biotechnology, and human health.

miniPCR bio provides gel electrophoresis equipment, reagents, classroom experiments, worksheets, and teacher resources for introducing electrophoresis from middle school through college-level biology and biotechnology.

Gel electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate molecules by size. In DNA gel electrophoresis, an electric field moves negatively charged DNA fragments through an agarose gel. Smaller DNA fragments move more easily through the gel and travel farther than larger fragments.

Scientists use gel electrophoresis to separate and visualize DNA fragments, allowing them to compare samples, estimate DNA fragment sizes, and analyze genetic differences. A DNA ladder containing fragments of known sizes provides a reference for interpreting the bands produced by experimental samples.