Zymography is a process that scientists use to study activity in cells and tissues, specifically to look at enzyme behavior. Zymography is a valuable tool for scientists because it allows them to isolate specific enzymes and potentially develop more effective drugs for the treatment of diseases. The overall process of zymography is fairly complex, and it includes several steps and protocols for ensuring the integrity of the observation.
Preperation
The first protocol in zymography is to prepare the sample for observation. Most observation in biology and chemistry involves diluting a sample with water; however, in zymography, the sample is often prepared with a special zycogram gel, which is made up of sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide. The gel itself is prepared through a process known as "electrophroeosis," which involves the particles in the gel being moved about by electric shocks.
Mixing
The sample that the scientist wants to observe is then mixed in with the electrophroeosis gel. This mixture is then diluted with water and stored at 37 degrees Celsius (around 97 degrees Fahrenheit) for at least four hours.
Observation
The final protocol for zymography involves adding to the incubated mixture a blue or black staining liquid and then letting it sit for 30 minutes. After this, scientists clearly see the area of enzyme activity and thus determine the importance of said enzymes.
Tags: protocol zymography, with water
