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FUGel electrophoresis is a molecular biology technique used to separate nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) or proteins according to their molecular size and charge. In this process, a semi-solid agarose gel matrix acts as a molecular sieve. DNA samples, which are negatively charged due to their phosphate backbone, are loaded into wells and subjected to an electric field. The fragments migrate toward the positive (anode) end, with smaller DNA molecules moving faster through the gel pores than larger ones.
To visualize the separated fragments, a fluorescent intercalating dye such as ethidium bromide or SYBR Safe is used. Under UV or blue light, these dyes emit fluorescence, revealing distinct DNA bands that represent fragment size differences.
This method is fundamental in molecular genetics, forensic science, biotechnology, and genetic engineering—used for analyzing PCR products, verifying cloning results, or checking DNA purity and size.
Video source: @backpackbiologist
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