Prestained color protein markers, a key tool in protein electrophoresis, covalently bind proteins of known molecular weights to specific dyes, forming a series of brightly colored standard bands. This provides researchers with an intuitive and efficient molecular weight reference system. Its core value lies in simplifying the experimental procedure while significantly improving the accuracy and observability of protein separation, making it an indispensable tool in modern protein research.
During electrophoresis, the prestained color protein marker is loaded simultaneously with the sample. Proteins of different molecular weights migrate according to their size differences under the influence of an electric field. Because the proteins in the marker are pre-bound to the dye, researchers can observe the migration trajectory of the colored bands in real time during electrophoresis, judging the progress of protein separation without waiting for subsequent staining steps. For example, when the smallest molecular weight band migrates to the bottom of the gel, it can be preliminarily determined that other proteins have been effectively separated, thus avoiding band diffusion due to excessively long electrophoresis time or incomplete separation due to excessively short electrophoresis time. This real-time monitoring function greatly shortens the experimental cycle, especially suitable for experimental scenarios requiring multiple repetitions or condition optimization.
The color characteristics of the marker further enhance the visualization of protein separation results. Different molecular weight bands are assigned different colors, such as blue, green, and red, creating a clear contrast between adjacent bands in the gel. Even proteins with similar molecular weights can be clearly distinguished by color differences. For example, when analyzing protein complexes, the molecular weights of the subunits within the complex may vary significantly. Prestained markers provide dual references—both color and molecular weight—for different subunits, helping researchers quickly identify the complex composition and the separation status of each subunit. Furthermore, the colored bands remain clear after transfer, providing a direct indicator for assessing transfer efficiency in Western blot experiments. If the marker band is completely transferred to the membrane, the transfer process is successful, and the localization and analysis of the target protein are more reliable.
The simplification of experimental procedures by prestained color protein markers also indirectly optimizes protein separation. Traditional non-prestained markers require staining and destaining steps after electrophoresis, which is not only time-consuming but can also affect band clarity due to uneven staining or over-destaining. Prestained markers eliminate these steps, reducing human error and lowering the risk of protein degradation due to repeated processing. Its ready-to-use design (no boiling or dilution required) further ensures the stability of the labeled proteins, avoiding molecular weight shifts or band anomalies caused by improper handling. For example, some labels only require gentle mixing after low-temperature thawing before loading, avoiding protein precipitation caused by vigorous shaking, thus ensuring reproducibility of separation results.
The stability of experimental conditions is crucial to the performance of prestained color protein markers. Factors such as gel concentration, electrophoresis buffer formulation, and transfer conditions can all affect band migration rates. For example, in low-concentration gels, small molecular weight proteins may migrate too quickly and deviate from their expected positions, requiring molecular weight calibration using non-prestained labels. Therefore, researchers must maintain consistent conditions and optimize parameters through pre-experiments to ensure the reliability of label band migration. Nevertheless, prestained labels remain the preferred choice for most laboratories due to their ease of use, especially in routine protein analysis, where the molecular weight estimation accuracy they provide is sufficient for most research needs.
From an application perspective, prestained color protein markers cover a wide range of molecular weights, from low-molecular-weight proteins (such as cytokines) to high-molecular-weight proteins (such as structural proteins), making them suitable for various research fields such as proteomics, recombinant protein expression analysis, and disease biomarker detection. Their highly sensitive dyes can produce clear bands even with low sample volumes, enabling the analysis of precious samples or trace amounts of proteins. Simultaneously, the use of environmentally friendly staining agents reduces the harm to personnel and the environment, aligning with the sustainable development principles of modern scientific research.
Bio-reagent prestained color protein markers significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of protein separation through real-time monitoring, color visualization, simplified operation, and wide applicability. They not only provide a reliable molecular weight reference for protein research but also promote the development of electrophoresis technology towards convenience and standardization, becoming an important bridge connecting basic research and clinical applications.
