Sandy was conducting gel electrophoresis in his laboratory. However, he wanted to try something new. He placed the gel in the tank in such a way that the wells were placed towards the anode. What can be the likely consequence of the loaded DNA sample?

DNA fragments were separated normally

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DNA fragments migrated towards the cathode

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DNA fragments did not show usual migration towards anode

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Both a and b can be possible

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Solution

The correct option is C DNA fragments did not show usual migration towards anode
Agarose gel electrophoresis is a laboratory technique based on the principle of movement of charged particles (here DNA) in agarose matrix towards oppositely charged electrodes (anode) under the influence of electric field.

Normally, the gel is placed in the electrophoresis chamber such that the wells are located towards the cathode. The negatively charged DNA molecules migrate from the cathode towards the anode depending on their size under the influence of the electric field.

If the gel is placed in the chamber such that the wells are located towards the anode, the scenario would be completely different. The DNA molecules which are negatively charged, would not be able to migrate towards the cathode. This is because the cathode is also negatively charged. Hence, usual migration and separation of DNA fragments would not occur.

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Gel Electrophoresis

Standard VII Biology

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