PCR THERMAL CYCLER
FUNCTION: Thermal cyclers are essential laboratory equipment for researchers who run polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for sequencing, cloning, genotyping, mutagenesis, and many other applications. Common features of Bio-Rad's thermal cyclers include Peltier effect technology for precise temperature control, and thermal gradient to easily optimize PCR assays in a single run. Instruments include the T100™, a great choice for routine PCR, and the flexible 1000-series, which offers multiple block formats for increased throughput capabilities, and a dual 48/48-well unit that allows two independent experiments to run simultaneously
GEL ELECTROPHORESIS
FUNCTION: Gel electrophoresis is a laboratory method used to separate mixtures of DNA, RNA, or proteins according to molecular size. In gel electrophoresis, the molecules to be separated are pushed by an electrical field through a gel that contains small pores. The molecules travel through the pores in the gel at a speed that is inversely related to their lengths. This means that a small DNA molecule will travel a greater distance through the gel than will a larger DNA molecule.
ELECTROPHORESIS POWER PACT
3. ELECTROPHORESIS POWER PACT
FUNCTION: An Electrophoresis Power Pack is a power supply unit that provides adjustable voltage and current for gel electrophoresis, enabling the separation of DNA, RNA, or proteins while ensuring safety and efficiency.
BENCHTOP CENTRIFUGE
4. BENCHTOP CENTRIFUGE
FUNCTION: A centrifuge is a laboratory device that is used for the separation of fluids, gas or liquid, based on density. Separation is achieved by spinning a vessel containing material at high speed; the centrifugal force pushes heavier materials to the outside of the vessel. This apparatus is found in most laboratories from academic to clinical to research and used to purify cells, subcellular organelles, viruses, proteins, and nucleic acids.
PIPETTE
5. PIPETTE
FUNCTION: A micropipette is a precise laboratory instrument used to measure and transfer small liquid volumes, typically in the microliter (µL) range. It ensures accuracy, reproducibility, and contamination prevention in experiments such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and enzyme assays. Available in different volume ranges (e.g., P10, P20, P200, P1000), micropipettes use disposable tips to prevent cross-contamination. Some models have adjustable volumes or multichannel functions for high-throughput experiments. Proper handling and calibration are essential for maintaining accuracy in laboratory applications.
Eppendorf Pipetting Guides and Pipetting Techniques
6. UVP GEL STUDIO
FUNCTION: The UVP Gel Studio is a gel documentation system used for imaging and analyzing DNA, RNA, and protein gels after electrophoresis. It features UV and visible light illumination for detecting fluorescent and colorimetric stains, allowing high-resolution gel imaging. The system enables band quantification, molecular weight estimation, and concentration analysis using advanced software. It supports multiple gel stains like Ethidium Bromide, SYBR Green, Coomassie Blue, and Silver Stain, making it versatile for various applications. With user-friendly controls and safety features to minimize UV exposure, it ensures efficient and accurate gel documentation in molecular biology labs.
7. NanoDrop Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer
FUNCTION: The NanoDrop Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer is a specialized instrument used for quantifying and assessing the purity of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA), proteins, and other biomolecules in small sample volumes (as low as 1-2 µL). It operates based on UV-Visible absorbance spectrophotometry and eliminates the need for cuvettes by using a pedestal system for direct sample measurement. The key functions include measuring nucleic acid concentration (at 260 nm), protein quantification (at 280 nm), and purity assessment (260/280 and 260/230 ratios). It is widely used in molecular biology, biochemistry, and biotechnology labs for fast, accurate, and reproducible sample analysis
7. Autoclave
FUNCTION: An autoclave is a high-pressure steam sterilizer used to eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores from laboratory and medical equipment. It operates by generating high-temperature steam (121–134°C) under pressure (15–30 psi) to ensure complete sterilization. Autoclaves are essential in hospitals, research labs, and industrial settings for sterilizing surgical instruments, culture media, glassware, and biological waste. They function through pre-vacuum, gravity displacement, or steam-flush pressure pulse methods, ensuring efficient heat penetration. Proper autoclaving prevents contamination, ensuring a safe and sterile working environment.