Bio-Rad Sub-Cell® Model 192 Cell - Manual (Page 4)

Section 1
General Information
1.1 Introduction
The Sub-Cell instruments comprise a comprehensive and versatile gel electrophoresis
system that effectively separates nucleic acids using submerged agarose gels. Submarine
agarose gels are easy to cast and readily dissipate heat. These gels allow sample underlaying
and also prevent electrical field discontinuities caused by wicks or sample well dehydration.
Agarose gels are ideal for the separation of DNA restriction digestions, Polymerase Chain
Reaction (PCR)* amplified fragments, and genomic DNA and RNA prior to Southern or
Northern blotting. If operated correctly, agarose gels can effectively separate nucleic acids
from 20 base pairs to 20 kilobase pairs in length.
The Sub-Cell Model 96 and 192 electrophoresis cells have been created specifically for
multiple sample analysis. The width of each cell and the analytical combs were designed
based on the fixed spacing of multichannel pipets used to transfer samples from standard
microplates. Forty eight nucleic acid samples (plus three DNA size standards) can be visualized
in one row using the 51-well comb. If two combs are used, samples from all 96 wells of a
microplate can be analyzed on the Model 96. Four or more combs can be used on the
Model 192 for even higher throughput. The Model 96 can run gels 10 or 15 cm in length,
whereas the Model 192 can run gels 10, 15, 20 or 25 cm in length for the analysis of more sam-
ples or applications such as genomic DNA separations for Southern blotting.
The Sub-Cell systems give years of rigorous use. These rugged systems incorporate many
features that make casting and running agarose gels simple and efficient. The gel caster pro-
vides tape-free gel casting in trays and gels can be cast in the Sub-Cell bases using the gel
casting gates. Replaceable electrode cassettes provide a simple way to replace electrode wires.
A comprehensive assortment of tray sizes and multichannel pipet-compatible combs make
these systems ideal for most high throughput agarose gel applications. Recirculation ports
are provided to prevent heat and pH effects during high voltage or extended run elec-
trophoresis.
Note: This manual contains instructions for the Sub-Cell Model 96 and Model 192
electrophoresis systems only. Bio-Rad supplies similar but smaller agarose gel
electrophoresis cells: the original Sub-Cell, Wide Mini-Sub Cell, and Mini-Sub Cell systems
and the Sub-Cell GT, Wide Mini-Sub Cell GT and Mini-Sub Cell GT systems. This
manual does not provide information concerning these smaller versions. Contact your local
Bio-Rad representative for information concerning the original Sub-Cell and
Sub-Cell GT systems.
* The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) process is covered by patents owned by Hoffmann-LaRoche. Use of the PCR process
requires a license.
1.2 Safety
The Sub-Cell electrophoresis systems are designed for maximum user safety. The buffer
chambers are made of 1/4-inch (.635 cm) thick cast acrylic to create a leak-free
electrophoresis environment. The safety lids surround the entire buffer chamber to protect the
user from exposure to electrical currents. Sub-Cell systems were designed for indoor use only.
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