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Western Blot

In molecular biology, a Western blot is a method used to detect proteins in a tissue sample or extract. Like the related Southern and Northern blots, it separates denatured proteins with gel electrophoresis and then transfers the proteins onto a membrane with a blotting technique. After the protein is impregnated with antibodies specific to the protein being tested for, a dye that reacts only to the proteins attacked by the antibodies – in other words, the proteins that were tested for. The amount of dye that reacts to each tested antibody is measured to determine how much of that specific protein is present. Sometimes a radioactive label is used instead of the dye, but other methods are safer, quicker, and cheaper.

The Western blot is primarily used in medical diagnostic applications like testing for mad-cow disease and some forms of Lyme disease. The confirmatory HIV test also uses a Western blot. In certain cases, forensics uses Western blotting techniques to determine DNA data as well.

Web Resources On Western Blot

What is protein blotting?
Western blotting

Book Resources On Western Blot

Enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot technique (Western blot) for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) antibodies by Victor C. W Tsang
Self-study course 3031-G : reading and interpreting ; the HIV-1 Western Blot test by U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services

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