A method of characterizing proteins has been developed that includes providing a sample that contains a plurality of proteins to be characterized, wherein at least a first protein of the plurality of proteins is in its native form. Additionally, the method includes contacting the sample containing the plurality of proteins with a solution to form a sample solution, and then contacting the sample solution with a gel. The plurality of proteins is subsequently separated via electrophoresis within the gel, which includes an electrophoresis solution.