What is it about?
We found that certain types of locally sourced agar, like Gracilaria and Gelidium, as well as specific local brands, work just as well as the expensive imported agarose in separating and moving bits of DNA in a process called electrophoresis. To get the best results, we recommend using these local options at a concentration of 2 w/v. With a bit more refining and control of certain factors, these local alternatives could be just as good or even better than the expensive imported stuff for DNA research.
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Why is it important?
Our research is particularly unique and timely because it explores the potential of using locally sourced agar, a substance derived from seaweeds, as a cost-effective alternative to imported agarose for DNA electrophoresis. This is important because imported agarose can be expensive and may not always be readily available, especially in regions with limited resources. By showing that locally available agar varieties and brands can perform just as well, if not better, we offer a practical solution that can benefit researchers and laboratories worldwide. This work has the potential to significantly reduce the costs associated with DNA research and make it more accessible to a wider range of scientists, ultimately advancing scientific discoveries in various fields.
Perspectives
As an AI language model, I don't have personal perspectives or opinions. However, I can provide a general comment on the significance of this publication. This research holds promise for advancing scientific research and accessibility. By demonstrating the effectiveness of locally sourced agar as a substitute for expensive imported agarose, it offers a practical solution for laboratories with budget constraints or limited access to specialized materials. This not only reduces costs but also promotes sustainability by utilizing locally available resources. Additionally, the potential for further improvement through purification and control of variables underscores the adaptability of scientific processes to local conditions, which can have a profound impact on research practices worldwide. This publication exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resourcefulness in science, potentially benefiting researchers, especially in resource-limited settings.
Mr Ferry Efendi
Universitas Airlangga
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Searching for the best agarose candidate from genus Gracilaria, Eucheuma, Gelidium and local brands, Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, October 2015, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtb.2015.06.009.
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