What is the primary purpose of Western blotting?

The primary purpose of Western blotting is to detect specific proteins in a sample. This technique allows researchers to identify and quantify particular proteins among the many present in a biological sample. By separating proteins based on their size through gel electrophoresis, the proteins are then transferred to a membrane, where they can be probed using antibodies that specifically bind to the target proteins. This enables the visualization and confirmation of the presence of the protein of interest.

In contrast, analyzing DNA sequences is achieved through methods such as PCR or sequencing techniques, which are not the focus of Western blotting. Visualizing cell components typically involves techniques like microscopy rather than Western blotting, which targets proteins rather than cellular structures as a whole. Measuring molecular weights is an indirect result of the Western blotting process (as the proteins are separated by size), but it is not the primary goal; the main objective is protein detection using specific antibodies. Therefore, the strength of Western blotting lies in its ability to provide specific insights into protein presence and abundance in various biological contexts.