Is a smeared band on a Western Blot a valid result?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Sunwoo Bae
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the validity of smeared bands observed in Western Blot results, specifically regarding MDCK-siNGT and MDCK-siB4Gal4, which showed reduced keratin sulfate levels, while MDCK-RCA exhibited no keratin sulfate production. The presence of smeared bands suggests potential issues with sample purification prior to blotting. The consensus indicates that smeared bands can lead to inconclusive results, necessitating careful evaluation of purification methods and gel loading techniques.

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Researchers in molecular biology, biochemists, and laboratory technicians involved in protein analysis and Western Blotting techniques.

Sunwoo Bae
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Homework Statement
I am trying to analyze a western blot result of expression of Keratin Sulfate in variety of cells.
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1703601896915.png

From this result, the conclusion is that MDCK-siNGT and MDCK-siB4Gal4 resulted in less keratin sulfate, while MDCK-RCA did not produce keratin sulfate at all. Looking at the gel, the band look very smeared, as if nothing was purified prior to blotting. I have noticed a similar looking gel in other articles as well, but is this a valid result?
 

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