Analysis On the Effect of Channel Morphology for Electrophoresis of Bio-Molecules: Dynamics

Gel electrophoresis is the most widely used technique for the separation and purification of biomolecules (DNA and proteins). The nanometer-scale pore structure of the gel tuned either by templating or by adding nanoparticles has been shown to alter the electrophoretic mobility of the biomolecules thus improving separation efficiency. Moreover, analysis of the effects of the pore length and diameters on the transport of biomolecules is an important aspect to be studied either analytically or computationally as shown by previous efforts [1, 2]. In this research, we propose to computationally analyze different pore models (associated with gel materials) and study the effect of geometry on the transport properties in this anisotropic-like media. Results will illustrate, for example, the role of pore-scale in conjunction with the effect of secondary electrical fields.

References: 1. Trinh, S., B.R. Locke and P.E. Arce, Separation and Purification Technology, 15, 255 (1999). 2. Hidalgo, R., M. A. Oyanader (*), and P. E. Arce, AIChE Annual Meeting, Salt Lake City, 2007. (*) Speaker.