Loading Buffers

Loading buffers are reagents added to protein or DNA samples for loading into gels for electrophoresis applications, such as agarose gel electrophoresis or SDS-PAGE. Loading buffers contain a colored dye, most commonly blue or orange, to visualize and track the progression of the bands across the gel. A density agent, such as glycerol, chances the density of the sample to allow it to sink to the bottom of the well without diffusing in the buffer. Components of protein loading buffers generally resemble the composition of the running buffer. However, loading buffers designated for native gels do not contain reducing agents or SDS, allowing the native protein structure and charge-to-mass ratio to be retained during electrophoresis. Varying concentrations of loading buffers can be found or made, depending on experimental requirements. Visit the supplier page for more product information.