Electrophoresis is the process of separating and characterizing proteins in an applied electric field. Proteins are major components of muscle, enzymes, hormones, hemoglobin, and other body tissues, and every protein in the human body is of a specific charge, size, shape, and solubility. Being able to look at individual proteins through electrophoresis enables doctors and scientists to determine specific genetic properties, abnormalities or disease conditions. This technology plays a central role in many scientific endeavors, from cancer research to molecular biology, and electrophoresis instruments are used throughout the world in hospitals, research laboratories, schools, forensic labs, and more.