FAQ: Why is my DNA Ladder floating out the wells? Why are there no bands visible in my DNA ladder gel lane?

If the ready-to-load DNA Ladder or the 6X Loading Dye supplied with the ladder has been frozen at any time, the Ficoll will form a density gradient in the vial upon thawing. Any volume pipetted from the top of the vial will contain only a small amount of density agent and will float out of the wells. To prevent this, mix well upon receipt and before use.