Object Details
user
Cohen, Stanley N.
Description (Brief)
This UV light box was used in the lab of Stanley Cohen at Stanford University in his research on recombinant DNA. UV light boxes are used to help visualize results from of DNA and RNA analysis through gel electrophoresis. Molecules subjected to gel electrophoresis create a pattern of bands on a gel medium as they move. Scientists can interpret the pattern to obtain the results of the analysis. However, because the bands of molecules are naturally colorless, they must be dyed to be made visible. Dyes that fluoresce under UV radiation are commonly used. This UV light box was used to provide illumination behind the dyed bands, causing them to fluoresce so that they could be photographed and interpreted.
For more information on the Cohen/Boyer experiments with recombinant DNA see object 1987.0757.01
Source:
Accession File
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Stanley N. Cohen, MD and Stanford University Medical Center
ID Number
1987.0757.39
catalog number
1987.0757.39
accession number
1987.0757
Object Name
light box
Physical Description
plastic (overall material)
metal (overall material)
black (overall color)
white (overall color)
Measurements
overall: 7.7 cm x 18.5 cm x 25.7 cm; 3 1/32 in x 7 9/32 in x 10 1/8 in
associated place
United States: California, Stanford, Stanford
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Medicine
Biotechnology and Genetics
Science & Mathematics
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1131237