Bio-Rad DCode™ Universal Mutation Detection System - Manual (Page 77)

8.4 Removing the Gel
1. After electrophoresis is complete, turn the power supply and system (heater, pump, and
power) off. Disconnect the power cord and electrical leads. Allow the heater to cool for
approximately 1 minute in the buffer.
2. Remove the temperature control module and place it on the DCode lid stand.
Caution: The heater is still hot. Do not touch. Carefully pull the core out of the
electrophoresis tank. Pour off the upper buffer into the tank by tilting the core above and
over the chamber.
3. Lay the core and gel sandwiches on a padded surface to absorb buffer spills.
a. For 16 x 10 cm and 7.5 x 10 cm gels, remove the sandwich assembly with your thumb,
pushing on the latches on the core outward and your index finger pushing on the
sandwich clamp. Pull the sandwich assembly off the locating pins on the top of the core.
b. For 16 x 16 cm and 16 x 20 cm gels, remove the sandwich assembly with your index
fingers below the sandwich clamps and your thumbs resting on the latches on the
core. Gently remove the assembly by pulling up (in a manner opposite to the way it
was attached). Pull the sandwich assembly off the locating pins on the top of the core.
Fig. 8.2. Removing the sandwich assembly from the core.
4. Loosen the single screw of each clamp and remove the clamps from the sandwich.
Carefully pry off the shorter glass plate. Do not use a metal spatula to remove the glass
plate. This may chip or crack the plate.
5. Remove the spacers and cut one corner of the gel to distinguish between gels.
Note: If different buffers are used between runs it is advisable to rinse the pump with
distilled water. Place the DCode module on the DCode stand. Fill a 500 ml beaker with
distilled water and place it under the pump inlet tube. Place an empty beaker under the
pump outlet tube. Turn the pump on for 1–2 minutes.
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