The gel transilluminator is a powerful tool that uses ultraviolet light to visualize nucleic acids and proteins stained on polyacrylamide or agarose gels. The device allows scientists to accurately detect the location and size of DNA or RNA fragments. This machine, which illuminates from below, brings up the signal invisible to the human eye and streamlines the process of analyzing genetic and protein information.
Transilluminators, also known as darkfield illuminators, are laboratory equipment that have the potential to significantly change the efficiency of your lab. They are often used in molecular biology experiments to visualize DNA and RNA fragments after performing techniques such as gel electrophoresis. But how exactly does a transilluminator work and how can it improve the operation in your lab?
The transilluminator, also known as a backlighting device, is a machine implemented in various genetic and biochemical analyses to visualize compounds such as nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins previously separated by gel electrophoresis. This equipment works by emitting ultraviolet (UV) light or light of other wavelengths, depending on the type of stain used in the gel. This light passes through the gel, causing the labeled compounds to glow and become visible to the researcher.