LY DYCZ-28A/C Single-Plate Sandwich-Style Vertical Electrophoresis Apparatus

Overview

The LY DYCZ-28A/C Single-Plate Sandwich-Style Vertical Electrophoresis Apparatus is a compact, benchtop electrophoresis system engineered for high-resolution protein separation via vertical slab gel electrophoresis—including isoelectric focusing (IEF), SDS-PAGE, and native PAGE. Its sandwich-style design integrates a single gel plate between two parallel conductive electrode plates—typically stainless steel or aluminum—ensuring uniform electric field distribution across the entire gel surface. This architecture minimizes edge effects and thermal gradients, supporting reproducible migration profiles essential for comparative proteomic analysis. Unlike horizontal systems, the vertical orientation enables precise stacking gel formation and improved resolution of low-abundance or post-translationally modified proteins. The apparatus operates without integrated power supply; it is intended for use with external DC power sources compliant with standard laboratory electrophoresis voltage requirements (typically 100–600 V). Its passive cooling capability—facilitated by conduction through metal electrode plates and ambient air exchange—helps mitigate Joule heating during extended runs, preserving gel integrity and band sharpness.

Key Features

• Single-plate sandwich configuration for simplified gel assembly and reduced risk of buffer leakage
• Interchangeable sample combs (12- and 16-well) in two thicknesses (1.0 mm and 1.5 mm) to accommodate varying sample volumes and resolution needs
• Dual-size buffer chambers (950 mL and 1350 mL configurations) supporting both mini-gel and extended-run applications
• Modular glass plate system: includes plain glass plates, edge-bonded plates with 1.0 mm or 1.5 mm spacers, and reusable gel frames—enabling consistent gel thickness and alignment
• Compact footprint (≤160 mm depth) optimized for space-constrained laboratories and laminar flow hoods
• Corrosion-resistant electrode plates and insulated housing compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for Class II laboratory equipment

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DYCZ-28A/C accommodates standard polyacrylamide gels (4–20% T) and agarose-based IEF gels (e.g., immobilized pH gradient gels, IPG strips embedded in overlay gels). It supports common electrophoretic buffers including Tris-Glycine, Tris-Tricine, and ampholyte-based IEF electrolytes. All wetted components are chemically inert to acrylamide monomers, TEMED, APS, and standard SDS-PAGE denaturants. While the instrument itself does not carry CE marking or FDA 510(k) clearance, its mechanical and electrical design aligns with general-purpose lab equipment requirements under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited environments. Users performing regulated work (e.g., QC in biopharma) may integrate this apparatus into validated workflows when paired with documented SOPs, calibration records for external power supplies, and traceable buffer preparation protocols per USP Analytical Instrument Qualification guidelines.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone electrophoresis chamber, the DYCZ-28A/C does not incorporate onboard electronics, firmware, or digital interfaces. Consequently, it requires no software installation, driver updates, or cybersecurity validation. All operational parameters—including voltage, current, run time, and temperature monitoring—are managed externally via compatible power supplies (e.g., Bio-Rad PowerPac Basic, Thermo Fisher Owl E2 or E3 series) and optional external thermistors or IR thermometers. This analog architecture ensures long-term compatibility with evolving data acquisition platforms and eliminates concerns related to firmware obsolescence or vendor lock-in. For GLP/GMP environments, manual log entries or integration with LIMS via external power supply APIs satisfy audit trail requirements per 21 CFR Part 11 when combined with procedural controls.

Applications

• High-resolution separation of complex protein mixtures in proteomics workflows
• Isoelectric point determination of purified enzymes or recombinant proteins
• Verification of protein purity, aggregation state, and post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation, glycosylation)
• Preparative electrophoresis for downstream mass spectrometry or Western blotting
• Teaching laboratory implementation of core electrophoretic principles (migration rate, charge-to-mass ratio, pore size effects)
• Quality control testing of therapeutic proteins and biosimilars per ICH Q5E comparability guidelines

FAQ

Is the DYCZ-28A/C compatible with pre-cast gels?

No—it is designed exclusively for hand-cast polyacrylamide or agarose gels using the supplied glass plates, combs, and framing system.
Does the unit include a built-in power supply?

No. An external DC power supply capable of delivering up to 600 V and 100 mA is required and must be selected based on gel dimensions and buffer conductivity.
Can this system be used for DNA electrophoresis?

While technically feasible for small DNA fragments (<500 bp) in high-percentage polyacrylamide, it is optimized for protein analysis; horizontal agarose systems remain preferred for routine nucleic acid separation.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?

Routine cleaning of glass plates and electrode surfaces with deionized water and mild detergent; periodic inspection of comb teeth and frame seals for wear or deformation.
Are replacement parts available internationally?

Yes—standardized components including combs, spacers, and glass plates are distributed globally through authorized LY technical support partners and third-party life science consumables suppliers.