Question

Describe the process of Southern blotting.

Short answer

Southern blotting is the DNA transfer from a gel to a nylon membrane

Step-by-step solution

Process of blotting

Scientists examine nucleic acid samples like fragmented extracts of genomic DNA and RNA, for the presence of certain sequences. They design and label short DNA fragments or probes with radioactive or fluorescent dyes to facilitate detection. Gel electrophoresis separates nucleic acid fragments according to their size. The scientists then transfer the fragments in the gel to a nylon membrane in a process we call blotting.They then use the probe nucleic acid fragments that are bound to the membrane surface using specific radioactively or fluorescently labeled probe sequences. When scientists transfer DNA to a nylon membrane, they refer to the technique as Southern blotting.

Southern Blotting with diagram