Silver staining of human body fluid proteins following two‐dimensional electrophoresis in the absence of protein denaturants

Abstract

AbstractThe native protein patterns of human serum and unconcentrated cerebrospinal fluid, amniotic fluid, urine, sweat and tears have been detected by silver staining following two‐dimensional electrophoresis in the absence of protein denaturants. Over 100 proteins were detected in both urine (80 μl) and sweat (40 μl), thereby demonstrating the high sensitivity of the approach. However, optimal sensitivity was only achieved following pre‐equilibration of the gels in sodium dodecyl sulphate. The implications and possible nature of stain enhancement are discussed.