Junyi JY-JX5 Vertical Electrophoresis Tank

Overview

The Junyi JY-JX5 Vertical Electrophoresis Tank is an engineered solution for high-reproducibility polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), specifically optimized for molecular biology applications including SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) fragment analysis, protein separation, and nucleic acid sizing. It operates on the principle of vertical electrophoretic migration under a constant electric field, where charged biomolecules—such as DNA fragments or denatured proteins—migrate through a porous polyacrylamide matrix at rates inversely proportional to their molecular weight. The JY-JX5 features a rigid, one-piece molded acrylic tank body integrated with precision-machined aluminum side frames, eliminating traditional gasket-dependent sealing interfaces that are prone to buffer leakage and inconsistent gel alignment. Its vertical orientation enables uniform field distribution across the gel surface and supports both slab-gel and gradient-gel configurations.

Key Features

• Molded monolithic acrylic construction ensures dimensional stability, chemical resistance to common electrophoresis buffers (e.g., Tris-Glycine, Tris-Acetate), and long-term mechanical integrity.
• Tool-assisted clamping system using a standard hex wrench enables rapid, repeatable gel cassette assembly without manual pressure variability—critical for minimizing gel distortion and band smearing.
• Integrated lid-interlock mechanism automatically disconnects power when the upper chamber is opened, complying with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment.
• Optimized buffer reservoir design (~2200 mL capacity) maintains thermal equilibrium during extended runs (up to 120 min at 200 V), minimizing pH drift and Joule heating effects that compromise resolution.
• Interchangeable comb sets (25-, 40-, and 52-well configurations) mount with micron-level repeatability via machined guide rails—eliminating operator-induced misalignment between gel wells and sample loading positions.
• Simultaneous gel casting and electrophoresis capability allows for in-situ polymerization of acrylamide gels within the assembled cassette, reducing handling steps and contamination risk.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The JY-JX5 accommodates standard 1.0 mm thick polyacrylamide gels (186 × 95 mm active area), supporting both native and SDS-PAGE formats. It is routinely deployed in agricultural genotyping labs for SSR marker validation, forensic laboratories for STR profiling, and academic core facilities performing routine protein characterization. The device meets structural and operational criteria referenced in ISO 15195:2018 (calibration of clinical laboratory equipment) and is compatible with analytical workflows adhering to CLSI EP17-A2 guidelines for electrophoretic assay validation. While not an electronic power supply unit itself, it interfaces seamlessly with regulated DC power supplies compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity requirements when paired with validated electrophoresis control software.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone electrophoresis tank, the JY-JX5 does not incorporate embedded electronics or firmware. However, its mechanical consistency and dimensional fidelity ensure compatibility with third-party imaging systems—including chemiluminescence detectors, UV transilluminators, and CCD-based gel documentation platforms—that support audit-trail-enabled acquisition software (e.g., ImageLab, AlphaView SA, or Bio-Rad Quantity One). When integrated into LIMS-managed environments, gel run metadata (e.g., date/time, gel thickness, comb type, buffer lot number) can be manually logged or imported via CSV templates aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 record-keeping protocols.

Applications

• SSR and microsatellite genotyping in plant and animal breeding programs
• Verification of PCR amplicon size and purity prior to Sanger sequencing or NGS library preparation
• Quality control of recombinant protein expression (e.g., His-tagged constructs under denaturing conditions)
• Monitoring of enzymatic digestion efficiency (e.g., restriction enzyme cleavage patterns)
• Educational laboratory instruction in molecular biology techniques requiring reproducible vertical PAGE setup

FAQ

Is the JY-JX5 compatible with pre-cast polyacrylamide gels?
Yes—it accepts commercially available 1.0 mm thick, 186 × 95 mm pre-cast gels from major suppliers, provided they conform to standard vertical electrophoresis cassette dimensions.
Can two gels be run simultaneously in one JY-JX5 unit?
Yes—the dual-gel configuration is supported via optional spacer plates and independent comb positioning; each gel operates under identical field conditions due to symmetrical buffer flow paths.
What buffer systems are recommended for optimal performance?
Tris-Glycine (pH 8.3) for SDS-PAGE and Tris-Borate-EDTA (TBE) for nucleic acid separation are validated; avoid high-conductivity buffers exceeding 0.1 S/m to prevent excessive current draw and localized heating.
Does the unit include a power supply?
No—the JY-JX5 is a passive electrophoresis chamber only; users must supply a certified DC power source capable of delivering up to 600 V and 500 mA.
How is calibration and maintenance documented for regulatory audits?
Physical verification of gel tray dimensions, buffer volume, and lid interlock function should be recorded per institutional SOPs; no periodic recalibration is required due to the absence of electronic sensors or moving parts.