The following question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B.

Question

Part A:

The diagram shows the process of a western blot, which is a form of molecular biotechnology.

In the process of a western blot, cells and tissues are lysed to collect proteins. Those proteins are separated by size on a protein gel. The proteins on the gel are transferred onto a blotting membrane. Detection antibodies are added to label target proteins. Using an imager, target protein bands are visualized and analyzed.

What is a western blot most likely used for?

A.
to detect a specific protein in a sample

B.
to make copies of a specific protein in a sample

C.
to increase the amount of a specific protein in a sample

D.
to decrease the amount of a specific protein in a sample

Multiple Choice Question
Part B:

Which best supports the choice in Part A?

A.
Western blots separate specific proteins in a mixture for further analysis.

B.
Western blots duplicate specific proteins in a mixture for further analysis.

C.
Western blots add in specific proteins into a mixture to increase the size of the sample.

D.
Western blots take out specific proteins from a mixture to decrease the size of the sample.

Answer 1

Part A:

The answer is A. to detect a specific protein in a sample.

Western blotting is a laboratory technique used primarily to identify and quantify specific proteins within a complex mixture, such as proteins extracted from cells or tissues.

---

Part B:

The best support for the choice in Part A is A. Western blots separate specific proteins in a mixture for further analysis.

This statement supports the idea of detecting specific proteins by outlining the process of separation, which is essential for identifying and analyzing target proteins in the sample.