Safe, Low-cost, Gel Electrophoresis Using Household Materials
Ens, S., C. Dudley, N. Ross, B. Landon, and M. Schneegurt
Molecular biology is central to research across the life sciences. It is important for students to experience hands-on molecular techniques, however, many secondary science classrooms can not afford the costly materials needed for basic techniques such as agarose gel electrophoresis. High school students and teachers are developing molecular biology protocols using only household materials from groceries, pet stores, and pharmacies, greatly reducing costs and increasing availability and safety. Gel boxes are fashioned from plastic food containers fitted with copper wire electrodes. A series of five 9-volt batteries acts as the power supply. There are several alternatives to Tris running buffers. Citric acid buffer systems using flavored drink mixes such as Tang or Crystal Light supplemented with salt were effective in maintaining pH and providing electrolytes during electrophoresis. Phosphate buffers (SeaChem) used to maintain pH in aquaria were the most effective. Food-grade agar-agar (Now Brand) gave acceptable results, but was inconsistent. Gels were readily stained using methylene blue solutions (Kordon) marketed for ick control in aquaria. Several RIT clothing dyes were tested, but none appropriately stained DNA. It seems that low-cost gel electrophoresis will be possible using household materials. Low-cost gel electrophoresis coupled with detergent-based crude DNA extractions will allow educators to expose students to hands-on molecular biology activities. Supported by NSF GK-12, NSF Microbial Observatories, and the Watkins Foundation.