1. Gel Electrophoresis
Method of separating molecules within an electric field based on the size and charge of DNA fragments

2. Terms: Gel: matrix used to separate DNA usually agarose
Buffer: salt solution that conducts electricity
Well: slots in the gel where samples are loaded

3. Electric current passed through gel
DNA (-) moves toward (+) electrode
Small DNA  moves faster
Larger DNA  moves slower
Use dye to stain DNA for visibility

4. Carbon fiber electrodes
Tools of the trade
Gel Tray
Micropipette
(set to 15 μL)
Comb
Pipette Tip
(disposable!)
Carbon fiber electrodes
Electrical leads

5. Casting & Loading a Gel

6. Using a Micropipette

7. Loading DNA samples into the wells

9. Running a Gel + _

11. DNA Fingerprinting Activity
3 Suspects (labeled #1, #2, #3)
1 Crime Scene Sample (labeled “CS”) #1 #2 #3 CS

12. Resources Animation: Virtual Labs:
Virtual Labs: