GEL FILTRATION Meaning and
Definition
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Gel filtration, also known as size exclusion chromatography, is a chromatographic technique employed in biochemistry, molecular biology, and protein chemistry for the separation and purification of biomolecules based on their size differences. This method relies on a stationary phase composed of a porous gel matrix, such as agarose or dextran, which acts as a molecular sieve.
In gel filtration, a mixture of biomolecules is applied to the top of a column packed with the gel matrix. Smaller molecules, which can enter the pores of the gel, encounter hindered flow and take a longer path through the column, resulting in a slower elution time. On the other hand, larger molecules are excluded from the pores and consequently pass more directly through the column, resulting in a faster elution time. Thus, the gel matrix acts as a filtration system, allowing smaller molecules to be separated and eluted first, followed by larger molecules.
This technique is particularly useful for separating proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and other biologically relevant molecules based on their molecular weight or size. It is widely used in the purification and characterization of biomolecules, as well as in the preparation of samples for further analysis or downstream applications, such as structural studies or functional assays.
Overall, gel filtration is a valuable tool in the field of biochemistry, providing a simple and effective method for separating and purifying biomolecules based on their size differences using a porous gel matrix as the stationary phase.
Common Misspellings for GEL FILTRATION
- fel filtration
- vel filtration
- bel filtration
- hel filtration
- yel filtration
- tel filtration
- gwl filtration
- gsl filtration
- gdl filtration
- grl filtration
- g4l filtration
- g3l filtration
- gek filtration
- gep filtration
- geo filtration
- gel diltration
- gel ciltration
- gel viltration
- gel giltration
- gel tiltration
Etymology of GEL FILTRATION
The term "gel filtration" is derived from the two key components of the technique: "gel" and "filtration".
1. Gel: The term "gel" refers to a solid substance with a jelly-like consistency. In the context of gel filtration, it refers to a porous matrix composed of cross-linked polymer beads. This gel matrix is the medium through which molecules of different sizes can be separated or fractionated based on their ability to enter and move through the pores.
2. Filtration: "Filtration" is the process of separating solids from liquids or gases by passing them through a porous medium. In gel filtration, the gel matrix acts as a filter through which molecules are selectively separated based on their size.
Combining these two terms, "gel filtration" refers to the technique of separating molecules based on their size using a porous solid matrix or gel as a filter.
