Labratory Bootcamp

As part of my MSc training, I learned the first steps of running a Western blot, a common lab technique used to measure the amount of a specific protein in cells. Proteins are the building blocks and “workers” of cells, and understanding how much of a protein is present can tell scientists how cells are functioning under different conditions.
This experience taught me that scientific accuracy depends not just on the big picture but on small, careful steps. From handling cells properly to measuring proteins precisely, I learned that attention to detail and consistency are what make research results trustworthy. It also reminded me how hands-on lab work connects technical skills with critical thinking, skills I will continue to build as I move deeper into biomedical research

The first stage of this process is protein isolation. To do this, we carefully broke open cultured cells (a process called cell lysis) to release their internal proteins. This step has to be done precisely: if the proteins are not handled properly, they can break down or become unusable. For example, we kept samples on ice the entire time to prevent degradation and used special buffers with protective chemicals to keep the proteins stable. By the end, we had a clear solution containing the proteins we needed for testing

In this step of the Western blot, we made proteins visible using a process called antibody probing. After transferring proteins onto a special membrane, we first “blocked” it to prevent background noise. We then applied primary antibodies that recognize specific proteins, followed by secondary antibodies with fluorescent tags that allow us to detect them under an imaging system.

By comparing the brightness of these signals to reference proteins or total protein levels, we could check how reliable our measurements were. This lab showed me how critical controls and careful preparation are for producing results that can truly be trusted.

Next, we moved on to protein quantification using a test called the Bicinchoninic Acid (BCA) Assay. In simple terms, this is a color-change reaction: when proteins interact with the BCA chemicals, the solution turns purple. The darker the color, the more protein is present. Using known protein standards to create a reference curve, we were able to calculate the exact protein concentration in our samples. This ensures that when we compare protein levels later in the experiment, the results are fair and accurate.