In the context of molecular biology, what does "Western Blot" typically test for?

The Western blot technique is specifically designed for the detection and analysis of proteins in a sample. This method involves transferring proteins separated by gel electrophoresis onto a membrane, followed by probing with specific antibodies that bind to the target proteins. The bound antibodies can then be visualized, allowing for both qualitative and quantitative assessment of the protein of interest.

The use of Western blotting in molecular biology is crucial for various applications, including verifying the presence of specific proteins, analyzing protein expression levels, and assessing modifications like phosphorylation. Given its purpose, the technique is distinctly tailored to proteins, making it an invaluable tool in fields such as immunology, cell biology, and clinical diagnostics.