Getting to Know What Gel Documentation Is All About
Gel documentation, often referred to as gel doc, plays a crucial role, especially in the fields of molecular biology, microbiology, and biotechnology. Gel doc is used to visualize the results of gel electrophoresis, allowing the separation patterns of molecules such as DNA, RNA, or proteins in samples to be clearly seen. This technique involves these molecules binding with dye reagents provided during electrophoresis, enabling their visualization. Additionally, gel doc also functions to document gel images, which are vital data in research and testing.
Utilizing the Latest Technology with Blue/Green LED for Safer Visualization
The majority of UV light usage in visualizing gel electrophoresis results carries risks, such as endangering users and causing damage to DNA and RNA with prolonged use. As an alternative, Blue/Green LED technology offers a safer solution that does not harm samples. Moreover, the excitation spectrum of Blue/Green LED covers a wide range of wavelengths, making it suitable for various types of dyes.
FastGene FAS-X: Advanced and Safe Gel Documentation System
One of the significant innovations of the FastGene FAS-X is the use of Blue/Green LED light, which is safer than UV light. Blue/Green LED technology has a wavelength range varying from 470 nm to 520 nm. FastGene FAS-X utilizes a single light source for DNA, RNA, and proteins. The Blue/Green LED light has been proven effective in utilizing various common red (including EtBr) and green DNA dyes as well as fluorescent proteins with very high intensity by accumulating the absorbed light energy by the fluorophores. Additionally, FastGene FAS-X can be used for documentation using additional white light to view protein results. The filter wheel on the FAS-X can be easily switched if you want to switch from fluorescence mode (Blue/Green LED light) to white light mode.
The FastGene FAS-X is equipped with the latest technology, making it an all-in-one solution for gel documentation without requiring additional devices. Its elegant design and compact size (only 40 cm) make it suitable for placement in laboratory areas. Another important feature for documenting gel electrophoresis results is a high-resolution camera. FastGene FAS-X uses advanced technology to produce high-resolution gel images (20 Mpixel) and simplify the process of selecting the desired area on the gel, so users do not need to use an external camera. Additionally, the operation of the software on FastGene FAS-X is easy, as program settings can be done via the 13.3″ full HD touchscreen located on the front of the gel doc, eliminating the need for other devices such as PCs or laptops.
Source :
Asad, N.; Cregg, S.; Shakya, S.; Stegman, S.; Timmons, L. (2023). Sustainable and Cost-Effective Gel Documentation. Methods Protoc., 6, 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/mps6020021
