To study DNA-protein interaction, I want to do a DNA retardation test by mixing the protein with DNA and afterwarts loading it on an agarose gel to see if the DNA migrates slower. I've found some articles where they do this and they state that they mix the DNA with protein in an 1:8 charge ratio, but I can't really figure out how to interpret this

Could anyone tell me how to calculate a DNA:protein charge ratio? If 1:8 is stated, how should I interpret this?