Bio-Rad Experion DNA Analysis Kits - Manual (Page 53)

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How Experion Analysis Differs from Gel-Based Methods
Though the Experion DNA analysis kits and other gel-based electrophoresis methods both use a gel
matrix and voltage differences to separate DNA fragments according to their charge:mass ratio, there
are a number of fundamental differences between the two methods that may affect how specific
fragments are separated and how data are interpreted (Table A.1).
Table A.1. Comparison of Experion DNA analysis and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Aspect Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Experion DNA Analysis
Sieving polymer (matrix) Formulation can be changed to affect resolution Fixed formulation
Agarose Polymer (not crosslinked)
DNA stain Multiple available Single, proprietary stain
Binds DNA fragments Intercalates DNA fragments
Detection Separate staining step; fragments sometimes
stained after separation Integrated separation step; fragments stained
during separation
Requires photography or other imaging
equipment for documentation, analysis Laser excites the stain, detection using a
photodiode, both incorporated
Types of separation Denaturing and native Native
Downstream applications Separated fragments available for excision,
electroelution, blotting applications Fragments not available for further analysis
Reagent and sample usage Moderate to extensive (ml to L) Minimal (µl)
Waste generation Moderate to extensive (ml to L) Minimal (µl)
Overall analysis time Hours (depends on gel size, staining method,
and methods of documentation and analysis) 30–40 min/chip (11 samples per chip)
Data analysis Manual; requires additional equipment and
software Automated (with flexibility of manual adjustments)
Experion DNA 1K and DNA 12K Analysis Kits