Gel electrophoresis documentation is one of the commonest techniques used across biochemistry and molecular biology laboratories. Gel electrophoresis is a crucial method that enables the separation of proteins, RNA, and DNA based on their charge and size. The gel documentation system helps in recording and analyzing these results. Once the gels are run, the clinical researchers working in laboratories document the results with the help of the images they capture. The images are kept for further analysis and preserving the records. Among the methods of gel documentation—automated and manual systems are widely known, but choosing the best method depends on your needs and preferences.
Features of manual gel documentation system
In manual gel documentation, researchers use a standard camera or a basic imaging system to capture gel images. They position the camera, adjust the light source, and set the proper exposure to obtain a clear image. The quality of the results depends on the researcher’s expertise in handling the manual gel imaging system.
Pros of manual gel documentation
Why is manual gel documentation useful? Let us delve into the pros of this system here:
- Flexible and simple
Manual gel documentation is simple and easy to use, especially for researchers with expertise in capturing images and knowledge of basic photography norms. It offers more flexibility, allowing users to adjust light intensity, exposure time, and camera angle. These adjustments help capture specific gels where automated systems may not work effectively.
- Low cost option
Laboratories make a big investment when buying equipment, so cost plays a crucial role. Many prefer the manual gel imaging system because it costs less. This affordability makes it accessible to laboratories with smaller budgets.
- Simple set-ups
Manual systems do not require specialized hardware and software, making installation easier than automated systems. Their simplicity allows researchers to use them efficiently for daily tasks in laboratories.
- Tailored set-up
Researchers who set up the gel documentation system themselves benefit from using manual equipment. Physically adjusting the system allows for a customized setup, making it ideal for simpler research and experiments.
Cons of manual gel documentation
Even manual gel documentation has its drawbacks. So, let’s identify them:
- Takes longer to complete
The manual gel documentation system takes longer than the automated one because researchers spend more time adjusting the settings to capture high-quality images for each gel. This process often leads to delays, especially when documenting multiple gels.
- Inconsistency in the results
Today, gel documentation relies on advanced lab technology, ensuring consistent results. However, manually adjusting the equipment can cause issues with lighting, exposure, and camera angles. Even slight variations in setup create inconsistencies, making it difficult for researchers to compare gels across different experiments.
- Lack advanced features
Manual systems offer limited features, making it difficult to analyze gel images effectively. They lack the capability for band intensity analysis and molecular weight calculation. As a result, performing quantitative analysis becomes challenging.
- Human error
The operator plays a crucial role in the functionality of the gel documentation system, making human error possible at every step. Mistakes in setting exposure levels or positioning the gel can reduce image quality. As a result, researchers may need to capture images again.
Features of automated gel documentation
Automated gel documentation systems use advanced imaging technologies to capture images and record Gel Electrophoresis results automatically. The latest built-in features, such as software, cameras, and automatic exposure adjustments, enhance accuracy and simplify analysis.
Pros of automated gel documentation
- High-quality images
For molecular biology labs that rely heavily on the quality of the images, automated gel docs help capture the right images. Thanks to the built-in features like auto-focus and auto-exposure that result in the best-quality images even when researchers use complex or difficult gels.
- High-end image analysis
Most automated systems come with sophisticated software that analyzes images, measures band intensity, and calculates molecular weight. This eliminates the need for additional software, ensuring a streamlined image analysis process.
- Time- effectiveness
Automated gel doc systems captures images in record time, thereby reducing the time needed in the manual system. All that the researcher needs to do is place the gel on the system and the rest is going to be taken care of by the equipment.
- No human error
The automated gel doc systems are programmed inside out and are perfect for carrying out specific tasks with no chance of human error. The system conducts imaging consistently for different gels and leads to more standardised results.
Cons of automated gel documentation
- Complex operations
Automated gel docs are not easy to operate and require training. Hence, researchers must learn the ways to set up the equipment, load the gels ad interpret the results. For people who are not familiar with advanced lab technology may make it difficult to grasp the techniques.
- High cost
One of the major drawbacks of automated gel docs is the associated cost. For laboratories operating in shoestring budgets, investing such a significant amount of money may be out of question. Also, the cost of software updates and maintenance may turn out to be an additional expense.
- Lack of flexibility
Although automated systems come with loads of convenience, they are not as flexible when compared to manual systems. The pre-set features might not be appropriate for specific gels and certain conditions.
You are familiar with the pro and cons of manual and automated gel documentation systems. So, when it comes to choosing one, you need to analyse the set of features and make an informed decision based on your requirements. It also depends on the availability of resources in your lab. At IGene Labserve, one of the leading lab equipment manufactures in India, the equipment undergoes rigorous testing at different levels. Collaborate with us here to explore the features of the gel documentation system and order yours today.