What does Northern Blotting primarily analyze?

Northern Blotting is a laboratory technique specifically designed to detect and analyze RNA molecules within a sample. This method involves the separation of RNA by gel electrophoresis, followed by transfer to a membrane and hybridization with a complementary labeled probe. The primary application of Northern Blotting is to assess the size, abundance, and expression levels of specific RNA transcripts, which provides valuable information regarding gene expression.

By focusing on RNA rather than DNA or proteins, Northern Blotting enables researchers to study various aspects of RNA biology, including alternative splicing, developmental regulation, and responses to environmental signals. The technique is particularly useful for investigating gene expression profiles in different tissues or under varying conditions, thereby shedding light on the functional roles of specific genes.