Monday 27 May 2024

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect UV Transilluminator for High-Efficiency Molecular Biology Research

 


Several modern-day instruments have streamlined workflows in life science laboratories. When it comes to visualization of protein and DNAs, the one equipment that stands out is the UV transilluminator. It is widely used in the research work of molecular biology for visualising DNA polyacrimide, agarose gels, and proteins after electrophoresis. When purchasing one for a laboratory, you are likely to be in a dilemma, which in turn makes the choice more difficult.

So, here is how to cut through the noise and buy a suitable UV transilluminator to ease laboratory work:

  1. Check the intensity and wavelength

The primary function of this equipment is to emit UV light at different wavelengths. For specific molecular biology projects you are handling, be sure to check whether it operates at the wavelength needed to match the intended use. Which nucleic acid stain are you using? Is it SYBR green or ethidium bromide? Don’t forget the intensity of light as it might impact the resolution and sensitivity of the findings.

  1. Focus on the design of the device

Does the make and model of the UV transilluminator have anything to do with the visualization? Well, it does. For instance, devices are available with adjustable UV light intensity features, wherein the user will have the freedom to choose the intensity of light for viewing samples having varied concentrations. While few samples need high-intensity UV light for illumination, others may not need anything beyond low-intensity illumination. When choosing a model, try looking for equipment that offers you the flexibility of adjusting the light, allowing more transparency in the vowing of samples.

 

  1. Choosing the gel size

The viewing area size should match the size of the gel size you are working with for molecular biology projects. Make sure it accommodates the gel documentation and gel electrophoresis dimensions related to your work.

  1. Determining the wavelength of light

Choosing a wavelength of light that matches your needs is important. Remember that the span of ultraviolet light will differ and different lights will have varied intensities. Therefore, you must choose a wavelength that matches your needs.

  1. Features that safeguard your work

If you are yet to become aware, UV light often impacts the eyes and skin badly. Make sure you choose a device with UV-protective feature or an interlock system that keeps the UV light away when the lid opens.

  1. Intensity of light

The prominent function of this device is shedding light on the DNA and protein samples. So, greater is the intensity of light faster is the detection of faint bands, but may cause damage to the DNA structure. That is why you need to pick one that lets you be flexible with the usage of light. Find out whether the UV transilluminator your eyes are on have the settings needed to keep the light intensity optimal and the samples safe.

  1. Features

The features you need to watch for when buying the device are the vowing surface, the wavelength, the external dimensions, and electrical capacity of the device.

Devices like UV transilluminators have become an integral part of bioscience laboratories. The device works on the principle of UV radiation to illuminate the fluorescent bands in gels. Keen to get your hands on high-quality equipment from a reputable manufacturer?  I Gene Labserve is a reputable manufacturer of Industrial research and laboratory equipment that comes with 100% satisfaction guarantee. Stop at https://www.igenels.com/ to know more about what we offer.

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