Identification of protein bands in polyacrylamide gel by protein printing

Previously described methods for identification of proteins separated in cylindrical polyacrylamide gels have been found to be costly in time and antiserum and difficult to apply to small amounts of protein as are found in cerebrospinal fluid. We describe a method which involves printing of the proteins on the cut surface of the gel onto nitrocellulose paper. The protein bands of the imprint can then be identified using labelled antibodies. We have found this to be economical and quick, and it has permitted sensitive and reliable identification of proteins in unconcentrated cerebrospinal fluid and aqueous humour.