What does PFGE mean in Chemistry?

Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis

Pulsed field gel electrophoresis is a technique used for the separation of large DNA molecules by applying to a gel matrix an electric field that periodically changes direction. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) is a method used to separate large segments of DNA using an alternating and cross field. In a uniform magnetic field, components larger than 50kb move through the gel in a zigzag pattern, allowing for more effective separation of DNA molecules. This method is commonly used in microbiology for typing bacteria and is a valuable tool for epidemiological studies and gene mapping in microbes and mammalian cells. It also played a role in the development of large-insert cloning systems such as bacterial and yeast artificial chromosomes.PFGE can be used to determine the genetic similarity between bacteria, as close and similar species will have similar profiles while dissimilar ones will have different profiles. This feature is useful in identifying the prevalent agent of a disease. Additionally, it can be used to monitor and evaluate micro-organisms in clinical samples, soil and water. It is also considered a reliable and standard method in vaccine preparation. In recent years, PFGE has been widely used as a powerful tool for controlling, preventing and monitoring diseases in different populations

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