Ettan™ DALTtwelve 2D Electrophoresis System: Performance and Precision for Proteomics
The Ettan™ DALTtwelve system from General Electric HealthCare is a cutting-edge solution for laboratories specializing in proteomics analysis, offering high capacity and precise protein separation in two-dimensional (2D) electrophoresis experiments. Designed for applications where reproducibility and efficiency are crucial, this system excels in the second dimension of electrophoresis, separating proteins based on their molecular mass using SDS-PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis).
In the first dimension of this 2D approach, proteins are first separated by isoelectric focusing (IEF) based on their isoelectric point on immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strips. The Ettan DALTtwelve system seamlessly integrates with this initial phase, allowing the transfer of IPG strips into polyacrylamide gels for the second dimension of separation, making it an indispensable tool for in-depth protein studies.
The Ettan DALTtwelve separation unit can accommodate up to twelve large gels, each measuring 25.5 × 20.5 cm. This high capacity allows laboratories to simultaneously analyze multiple samples under identical conditions, improving process efficiency while ensuring optimal reproducibility and consistency in each experiment. After the focusing phase on IPG strips, protein samples are placed on the cathodic surface of the gels and sealed with agarose to ensure uniform migration.
The system features buffer seal slots lined with rubber gaskets, ensuring a perfectly sealed working environment. Blank cassette inserts are available for unused slots, preventing buffer leakage and maintaining the integrity of the electrophoresis environment. Thanks to a platinum wire cathode, fixed under the lid, and an anode positioned in the lower tank, the system ensures a stable and constant electrical flow for optimal protein separation.
One of the key advantages of the Ettan DALTtwelve system is its automatic buffer circulation system. An integrated pump, located in the lower chassis of the unit, ensures continuous and uniform buffer circulation throughout the electrophoresis process. The buffer is pumped into the main chamber, circulates between the cassettes, and then returns through the internal heat exchanger, maintaining a stable temperature throughout the process.
Peltier modules attached to the heat exchanger precisely regulate the temperature within a range of 10°C to 50°C, ensuring optimal conditions for each experiment. This advanced thermal regulation, combined with continuous buffer circulation, prevents overheating, resulting in more reliable and reproducible separations.
The Ettan DALTtwelve system is designed with integrated safety locks that prevent the application of current unless the lid is properly closed and the pump lever is in the circulation position. This safety mechanism is essential for ensuring secure working conditions, minimizing risks to operators, and ensuring optimal performance at each use. The lid can also be easily removed for quick and efficient cleaning.
The system comes with a power supply and control unit capable of delivering a maximum voltage of 600 V DC, with a maximum power output of 200 W. This device allows for precise management of experimental parameters, including temperature and voltage control, offering flexibility to adjust conditions according to the specific needs of each protocol.
This flexibility also extends to gel preparation. The Ettan DALTtwelve system is equipped with a gel caster that allows the casting of gels with different thicknesses, either 1.0 mm or 1.5 mm. This adaptability enables the system configuration to meet the specific needs of each experiment. Additionally, a gradient maker and a peristaltic pump are included for precise preparation of gradient gels, adding another layer of control and variability to separations.
The Ettan™ DALTtwelve system is an ideal choice for high-throughput proteomics laboratories that require precise, reproducible, and flexible protein separation. Its ability to accommodate up to 12 gels, combined with advanced thermal regulation and safety technologies, makes this device an essential tool for researchers aiming to achieve reliable results in their protein studies.