Abstract
This protocol describes a simple silver staining method used to visualize DNA fragments and other organic molecules with unsurpassed detail following traditional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). Sensitivity rivals radioisotopic methods and DNA in the picogram range can be reliably detected. The described protocol is fast (∼1 h) and is implemented using readily available chemicals and materials. To achieve the sensitivity and visual clarity expected, quality reagents and clean handling are important. The updated protocol described here is based on the widely used method of Bassam et al. (1991), but provides improved image contrast and less risk of staining artefacts.
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Acknowledgements
We thank the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence grant scheme (CEO348212) and associated support for the Queensland State Government, the UQ Strategic Fund and present and past members of the laboratory. Ms. Johanna Hadler and Dr. Paul Scott (both CILR Brisbane) are thanked for beta-testing the new procedure.
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Bassam, B., Gresshoff, P. Silver staining DNA in polyacrylamide gels. Nat Protoc 2, 2649–2654 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1038/nprot.2007.330
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nprot.2007.330
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