DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION OF CELLULAR ACETATE ELECTROPHORESIS FOR GENOTYPE

Abstract The construction and optimization of a cellulose acetate electrophoresis (CAE) system for genotype analysis were successfully achieved in this study. The project aimed to develop a cost-effective, reliable, and reproducible alternative to commercially available electrophoresis systems, particularly for resource-limited settings. A durable electrophoresis tank was constructed using locally sourced materials, including acrylic sheets and platinum electrodes, complemented by a regulated power supply unit. Optimization experiments identified the ideal operational conditions, including a voltage of 200V, TBE buffer at pH 8.3, and a run time of 20 minutes, ensuring high-resolution separation of hemoglobin genotypes (AA, AS, SS). The CAE system demonstrated effective and reproducible separation of genotype variants, with distinct band patterns for each type. Quantitative analysis of band intensities confirmed its accuracy, achieving a 90% reliability rate in identifying mixed genotype samples. Additionally, the system's performance was evaluated against commercial systems, showing comparable resolution but at a 40% lower cost. Despite challenges such as heat generation and membrane fragility, these limitations were addressed through cooling mechanisms and careful membrane preparation. This study concludes that the constructed CAE system is a viable, low-cost alternative for genotype analysis, particularly in resource-constrained settings. It provides a foundation for future improvements in membrane durability, heat management, and automation to further enhance its reliability and applicability in clinical diagnostics and genetic research