Bio-Rad DCode™ Universal Mutation Detection System - Manual (Page 54)

5.7 Assembly of a Heteroduplex Analysis Gel Sandwich
For the heteroduplex gel format, a 20 x 20 cm gel sandwich is recommended. To insure proper
alignment, make sure all plates and spacers are clean and dry before assembly. Use caution when
assembling the glass plate sandwiches. Wear gloves and eye protection at all times.
1. Assemble the gel sandwich on a clean surface. Lay the large rectangular plate down first,
then place the left and right spacers of equal thickness along the short edges of the larger
rectangular plate.
2. Place a short glass plate on top of the spacers so that it is flush with the bottom edge of
the long plate.
3. Loosen the single screw of each sandwich clamp by turning it counterclockwise. Place
each clamp by the appropriate side of the gel sandwich with the locating arrows facing up
and toward the glass plates (Figure 5.2).
Fig. 5.2. Positioning glass plates, spacers, and clamps.
4. Grasp the gel sandwich firmly. Guide the left and right clamps onto the sandwich so that
the long and short plates fit the appropriate notches in the clamp (Figure 5.3). Tighten
the screws enough to hold the plates in place.
Fig. 5.3. Attaching the clamps to the glass plate assembly.
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