Question

During gel electrophoresis, glycoproteins migrate as relatively diffuse bands, whereas nonglycosylated proteins typically migrate as narrow, well-defined bands. Explain the difference in electrophoretic behaviour.

Short answer

Electrophoresis of glycoprotein migrates and forms diffuse bands because of the carbohydrate’s interior with SDS and changes the band pattern. Non-glycosylated protein develops well-defined bands because protein-protein interaction occurs, so it developed a clear band pattern.

Step-by-step solution

Band pattern of glycoprotein in electrophoresis

Electrophoretic mobility depends on the size, shape, and mobility of the separation molecule. Glycoprotein consists of carbohydrates and protein. The heterogenetic nature of the glycoprotein interacts with gel in the electrophoresis and develops a diffuse bond.

Band pattern of non-glycoprotein in electrophoresis

Non-glycoprotein has only protein, this protein reacts with another protein and forms well-defined bands.

Glycoprotein has low electrophoretic mobility. It has carbohydrate-protein in its structure. Non-glycoprotein has high electrophoretic mobility because of its protein-protein interaction.