Electrophoresis: A Current Tool in the Diagnosis of Protein and Lipid Disorders

Electrophoresis has become crucial in modern healthcare, especially in analyzing proteins and lipids. This chapter explores the application of electrophoresis techniques in diagnosing protein and lipid disorders, highlighting their importance in clinical practice. In electrophoresis, charged particles move through a conductive medium when the electric current is applied, allowing molecules to be separated based on their size, charge, and shape. The choice of medium affects the separation quality, and various electrophoretic techniques have been developed with specific applications in protein and lipid analysis. Electrophoresis is vital in diagnosing numerous protein and lipid disorders, including hemoglobinopathies, monoclonal gammopathies, and dyslipidemias. Despite its popularity, electrophoresis faces challenges such as standardization and interpretation of results. Future perspectives involve integrating electrophoresis with other analytical techniques and developing automated systems for enhanced diagnostic efficiency. This chapter underscores the significance of electrophoresis as a valuable tool in diagnosing protein and lipid disorders, contributing to improved patient care and management.