Scientific and medical research has improved dramatically in recent times. Thanks to the advent of laboratory equipment like gel documentation system. The equipment is a must-have in genetics and biotechnology laboratories as it assists in viewing and documenting the outcome of gel electrophoresis. Typically, gel electrophoresis helps separate RNA, DNA, and various protein fragments based on their size. However, to visualise and document the result, laboratory workers need to store it as a digital image, which in turn aids in the study of genetics and extensively used for genetic diseases along with drug and cancer research.
Key factors to consider when buying gel documentation system
You are out there looking for a gel documentation system. However, to consolidate the purchase, you need to consider key factors. Here is how to choose the right one:
- Analyse the features
First, you need to consider the quality of imaging when finding a system that meets your needs. It is measured by the resolution degree and usually mentioned in the form of megapixels. So, the higher the resolution more improved are the clarity and the appearance of gel bands. Next, you need to go into checking the sensitivity of the system. Accordingly, equipment with high resolution is sensitive and can easily determine and analyse faint bands, which is a major aspect when working with low-abundance targets.
Apart from this, you need to consider the way of capturing the image. A majority of these systems have built-in cameras placed over transilluminator but the quality of the camera used may impact how granular the image is. Besides, scanner types of imagers are also used to capture digital images appropriately and can even be stored for later use.
- Determining the laboratory requirements
Buying a gel documentation system becomes less fussy when you what your laboratory requirements are. What is the purpose of having a gel documentation system in the laboratory? Is it just for analysing protein gels using ethidium bromide? Do you need multi-channel imaging facilities? What size of gels are you planning to document? Once the basic requirements are set, you can move ahead with the buying decision. That way, you can make a more realistic decision as well.
- Lighting options to consider
What is the nature of dyes you are to use in this process? Accordingly, you may consider various lighting options for capturing the bands. Although most systems would come fitted with UV lamps as the base but also offer white light alongside; it is largely used for RNA/DNA gels that are stained with ethidium bromide. On the other hand, white light is suitable for protein stained with silver or coomasie blue. Wondering if the UV light is the right choice?
Well, it is mercury light, which is suitable as well as affordable but may require replacement more often. Moreover, it also generates heat. That is why an LED lighting option is more appropriate due to longer lifespan and does not emit a lot of heat. Therefore, sample degradation can also be reduced to a great extent. Apart from this, there are different lighting options for more advanced systems like fluorescence imaging while working with GFP or SBYR Green; similarly, western blot systems feature RGB and UV.
- Price
Most research laboratories need to adhere to a budget. Therefore, one of the most discussed options would be the price. Analyse the prices of basic gel documentation systems and those with additional features like analysis software, high-resolution cameras, chemiluminescence and fluorescence, and multi-channel imaging. That way, it will be easier for you to determine the prices. When it comes to features, you can choose a particular set based on the requirements of the laboratory.
- Software
Do you want the gel documentation system just to take images or analyse them? Do you want the system to conduct a good deal of analysis? Are you keen to get a system and software that runs on the computer as well as the device? When each laboratory member needs a copy of analysis software?
You need to ask how many software licenses are available with the gel doc system and the cost of adding them. Besides, you need to know the frequency in which the software is updated and the number of free updates available.
When getting a gel documentation system
for your laboratory, analyse the features and determine how well they
align with the research requirements as well as budget constraints.
Furthermore, the type of output, the size, and the ability of the system
to upgrade can help you find a system that matches your needs for now
and the future. At IGene Labserve, we have top-grade documentation
systems for laboratories and happy to assist clients and answer their
queries. Click here https://www.igenels.com/ for more information.
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