Question

Which of the following is a commonly used label in blotting techniques?

(a) vimentin

(b) biotin

(c) avidin

(d) streptomycin

I have been asked this question during an interview.

I want to ask this question from Nucleic-acid Techniques in section Techniques in Cell Biology of Cell Biology

Answer 1

In blotting techniques (such as Southern blot, Northern blot, or Western blot), commonly used labels are those that can bind to the target nucleic acids or proteins, allowing for their detection. Biotin is a frequently used label because it can be easily detected using streptavidin or avidin, which have a high affinity for biotin. This biotin-avidin or biotin-streptavidin interaction is used to visualize the target of interest.

Here’s a breakdown of the options:

• (a) Vimentin: This is a type of intermediate filament protein, not a label used in blotting techniques.

• (b) Biotin: Correct. Biotin is commonly used as a label in blotting techniques. It can be attached to probes or antibodies, and then detected using streptavidin or avidin.

• (c) Avidin: Avidin binds strongly to biotin and is often used to detect biotin-labeled molecules, but it is not a label itself.

• (d) Streptomycin: This is an antibiotic, not a label used in blotting techniques.

Correct Answer: (b) Biotin