Protein Analysis by SDS Page

The protocol for this procedure can be found here and MSDS for the reagents used can be found here.

Risks

Reagents - some of the reagents used in this protocol are hazardous

Acrylamide - Acrylamide is a highly hazardous substance. It is both a possible carcinogen and teratogen, is readily absorbed through the skin and can cause heritable genetic damage and nervous damage. It may be fatal if inhaled. When working with this substance wear safety goggles, gloves, facial mask, lab coat and work within a well ventilated fume cupboard.

Ammmonium Persulphate - Ammonium persulfate is toxic, highly damaging to mucous membranes and may cause dermatitis or skin, eye or respiratory irritation. It can also cause sensitization by inhalation or skin contact. It is highly recommended to work in a fume cupboard with safety goggles and gloves.

Bromophenol Blue - Bromophenol Blue is slightly hazardous when inhaled or contacted. The sample buffer has a rather unpleasant smell though and we therefore recommend using it in a well ventilated fume cupboard.

Disposal - DO NOT DISPOSE OF REAGENTS IN BIOLOGICAL WASTE CONTAINERS. Everything that has come into contact with Acrylamide or Ammonium Persulphate must be treated as hazardous chemical waste, placed in the appropriate, labelled, containers and taken to the department's stores office to be disposed of by the university's contractors. If in doubt, always consult the poster on the safety homepage for advice on the department's waste disposal policies.