Specifically, western blot imaging systems allow for the visualization and study of target proteins within a mixture of proteins.

Gel imaging is also commonly used in molecular biology, as it enables researchers to study nucleic acids using the same gel-based techniques used in western blotting immunoassays. Many systems available today integrate gel imaging and western blot documentation in one instrument.

Each technique and instrument type offers imaging and documentation capabilities regarding specific nucleic acid and proteins that are suspended within agarose or polyacrylamide gels. These gel samples are generally stained using ethidium bromide or similar fluorophores.

Traditional detection methods include using X-ray film or a transilluminator to detect protein or nucleic acid levels. For example, in chemiluminescent western blots, X-ray film is used to detect target proteins and requires the use of a darkroom.

However, more modernized systems and methods rely on a digital charge-coupled device (CCD) imager to detect. Both modes of detection are commonly used, as each offers valuable benefits to the end-user.

When it comes to digital imaging, western blot and gel doc systems generally include advanced software which simplifies the research process by automatically acquiring the data, analyzing it, and validating it. This is extremely useful when dealing with the many nucleic acid and protein staining modes, including fluorescent, colorimetric, radioisotopic, and chemiluminescent.

By digitizing the gels, you ensure the benefits of accurate sample quantification and simple, practical data storage. This process is even more straightforward as most of these systems are compatible with PC and Mac operating systems.