In an SDS-PAGE procedure, the SDS serves as a detergent. Why are the proteins treated with a detergent before being run through the electrophoresis gel?

A. To coat the proteins with a large positive charge, since amino acid side chains may have positive, negative, or neutral charges, and a large uniform charge is necessary to get good separation in the gel.

B. To allow the electrophoresis to separate the proteins solely on the basis of molecular weight.

C. To prevent the protein from denaturing so that the electrophoresis can accurately resolve the proteins on the basis of tertiary structure.

D. To break the intramolecular bonds holding the tertiary and primary structure of the protein together, thereby generating linear fragments that may be sorted on size.

Explanation

SDS is a detergent which denatures the tertiary and secondary structure of a protein. It also coats the protein with a very large negative charge. This electrostatic repulsion pushes the protein in a single long rod shape, allowing the gel to sort various proteins on the basis of molecular weight alone. Thus (B) is the right answer.

A: This answer choice is right except is says positive charge. SDS creates a negative charge.

C: Detergents cause denaturing, rather than preventing it.

D: SDS will break down tertiary and secondary structure, not primary.

Want more MCAT practice?

We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!

From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!

Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.