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23
Jan
Keep Precast Gels Refrigerated—Never Frozen
Precast polyacrylamide gels have become a standard consumable in molecular biology and protein research labs, known for their ease of use and batch-to-batch consistency—key benefits highlighted in our electrophoresis troubleshooting guide.
However, many researchers have encountered this frustrating scenario: a seemingly “brand-new” gel pulled from cold storage is found cracked, deformed, or with damaged comb wells—rendering the experiment unusable before it even begins.
"In most cases, the root cause is improper storage, especially accidental freezing. In this guide, we’ll explain the science behind freeze damage and provide best practices for storage."
01 Why Do Gels Get “Damaged” by Freezing?
Precast gels are formed by polymerizing acrylamide into a three-dimensional hydrogel network—essentially, a water-rich, sponge-like matrix. Improper storage can later manifest as run instability (e.g., smeared bands), which is frequently addressed alongside operating-parameter controls such as preventing localized gel overheating in SDS-PAGE.
• Mechanical Stress:
Water expands by ~9% upon freezing. Ice crystals act like microscopic wedges, forcing apart and tearing the delicate gel matrix.
• Physicochemical Stress:
Freezing pushes salts into remaining unfrozen pockets, creating hypertonic conditions that cause matrix collapse.
02 Common Laboratory Incidents
Cracked gel surfaces or multiple internal fractures
Air gaps forming between the gel and the cassette plate
Anomalous electrophoresis results (Smeared bands)
03 Best Practices for Precast Gel Storage
1. Temperature Control
- Optimal Storage: 2–8°C (Refrigerated).
- Strictly Prohibited: Do not store at -20°C.
- Biofargo Stability: Our series (GSH, GSG, etc.) can withstand RT for 3–4 months, but 2-8°C is recommended for long-term consistency—especially when optimizing separation choices such as Native PAGE vs SDS-PAGE.
2. Proper Handling
- Orientation: Store horizontally to prevent gravity-induced deformation.
- Packaging: Keep sealed until use to maintain hydration.
- Refrigerator Choice: Use air-cooled lab fridges; avoid placement near cold walls—practices that also help reduce cassette/plate-related artifacts discussed in glass vs plastic gel plate selection.
Matched Running Buffers
Biofargo team
