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Polymerization Protocols
There are 2 major initiator formulations for acrylamide polymerization.
The first, for chemical polymerization, is used for SDS-PAGE and DNA sequencing.
Chemical polymerization employs ammonium persulfate and TEMED as initiators.
The second, for photochemical polymerization, is used primarily for horizontal
electrofocusing gels. Photochemical polymerization calls for riboflavin
as well as ammonium persulfate and TEMED. Riboflavin phosphate can be
substituted for riboflavin. Riboflavin phosphate is often preferred for
its greater solubility.
Preparation for Polymerization
1. Prepare 10% ammonium persulfate shortly prior to use (prepare fresh
daily). TEMED is used undiluted. Prepare 0.1% riboflavin (or riboflavin
phosphate, which is more soluble) if photopolymerization will be performed.
2. Combine buffer stock solution, monomer stock solution, and water in
the appropriate proportions in an Erlenmeyer flask. Since stock solutions
are usually stored at 4C, the gel solution should be allowed to warm
to room temperature before degassing.
3. Prepare the gel casting mold, i.e., plates, spacers, and clamps for
gel casting. Be sure they are neither hot nor cold.
4. Once the gel solution is prepared and brought to room temperature (2325C),
degas the solution under a vacuum of 125 torr or better for 15 min at
room
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