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

Thread starter Sunwoo Bae
Start date Dec 26, 2023
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Protein

AI Thread Summary

A smeared band on a Western Blot can indicate issues with protein purification or sample quality, potentially compromising the validity of the results. In this case, MDCK-siNGT and MDCK-siB4Gal4 showed reduced keratin sulfate, while MDCK-RCA did not produce any, raising questions about the reliability of the findings. Similar observations in other studies suggest that smeared bands are not uncommon, but they may not provide conclusive evidence. Researchers should consider the implications of smear patterns on data interpretation. Overall, while smeared bands can occur, they often warrant further investigation to ensure result validity.

Dec 26, 2023

Sunwoo Bae

Homework Statement: I am trying to analyze a western blot result of expression of Keratin Sulfate in variety of cells.

Relevant Equations: none

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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