Electrophoresis controllers, sensors, and methods for controlling electrophoresis processes

A sensor system for use with an electrophoresis apparatus having a gel matrix disposed between electrodes for separation of particles along with a tracking dye, said sensor comprising:

• a support having a first portion positionable on a first side of the gel matrix and a second portion positionable adjacent a second side of the gel matrix;
• a light emitter positioned on said first portion of said support for emitting light onto one side of the gel matrix;
• a light receiver positioned on said second portion of said support adjacent to the other side of the gel matrix for receiving light from said light source passing through said gel matrix;
• and
• at least one of said light emitter and said light receiver comprising a fiber optic cable having a first end and a second end, said first end being positioned on said support and facing the gel matrix, and said second end being remote from said sensor system.

A method for controlling an electrophoresis apparatus having a gel matrix disposed between electrodes for separation of particles along with a tracking dye, the method comprising:

• emitting a beam of light from the light emitter onto a first side of the gel matrix to illuminate a portion of the gel matrix;
• receiving light from the illuminated gel matrix in a light receiver, at least one of the light emitter and the light receiver comprising a light guide having a first end and a second end, the first end of the light guide disposed adjacent to the gel matrix and the second end of the light guide disposed remotely from the gel matrix;
• and
• monitoring a change in the light from the illuminated gel matrix due to migration of the tracking dye into the illuminated gel matrix and received by the light receiver.