Knight:NuPAGE electrophoresis/Gel drying

Overview

A procedure for drying and preserving a polyacrylamide gel.

Materials

• Gel drying solution
  • 20% ethanol
  • 10% glycerol
• Gel drying frames from Diversified Biotech
• Cellophane sheets from Diversified Biotech

Procedure

1. Equilibrate gel in gel drying solution for at least 30 mins.
   • Reduces gel swelling and results in a more flexible dried gel.
2. Place two cellophane sheets in water for 1-2 mins.
   • Cellophane may appear cloudy but will clear upon drying.
3. Lay one sheet of cellophane on solid back plate, beveled edge down. Avoid air bubbles.
4. Place gel on cellophane. Avoid air bubbles.
   • Air bubbles can cause cracking.
5. Pipet 1-2 mLs of gel drying solution on top of gel.
6. Layer a second wet sheet of cellophane on top of gel. Match edges with edges of back plate. Roll cellophane from bottom of gel towards the wells helps avoid air bubbles.
7. Place open frame over stack, bevelled edge up. Match edges of back plate. Frame should cover all edges of cellophane.
8. Attach plastic clips to all four sides.
9. Leave assembly to dry horizontally for at least 2 days.
10. Remove clips and pry apart assembly.
11. Peel dried gel/cellophane sandwich from back plate.
12. Trim off excess cellophane immediately to avoid curling.