Electrophoretic matrix staining composition and method

A method for electrophoretically staining biopolymers embedded in a matrix, the method comprising

• forming an electrophoretic, multi-layered assembly by
• contacting a first side of the matrix containing the biopolymer with a first matrix contact sheet consisting primarily of a non-cellulosic or partially cellulosic material having a matrix contact side in direct contact with the first side of the matrix, the first matrix contact sheet comprising a stain solution comprising a stain reagent and a solvent,
• contacting a second side of the matrix containing the biopolymer with a second matrix contact sheet having a matrix contact side in direct contact with the second side of the matrix, the second matrix contact sheet comprising a destain solution,
• positioning the assembly between a first electrode and a second electrode and in electrical contact with said electrodes;
• and
• applying a current to the electrodes and across the assembly to provide an electric force sufficient to move the staining reagent into the matrix, thereby staining the biopolymer in the matrix, and to move excess free staining reagent out of the matrix, thereby destaining the matrix.

A kit comprising

• a first non-cellulosic or modified cellulosic matrix contact sheet,
• a second matrix contact sheet,
• a stain solution comprising a stain reagent and a solvent, and
• a destain solution.