A laser-induced optical force trap was used to alter the movement ofchromosomes in mitotic cells in vitro. The trap was produced by using a 1.O6-jm neodymium YAG (yttrium/aluminum garnet) laser focused through a phasecontrast microscope. The trap was applied to one side of centrophilic chromosomes off the mitotic spindle and to latemoving chromosomes on the mitotic spindle. In both situations, chromosome movement was initiated in the direction opposite to that of the applied force. When the force was applied, chromosomes moved at velocities 10-20 times normal. These studies verify and extend the feasibility of using this new technique to study factors that influence organelle motility.
Background: Amplified DNA probes provide powerful tools for the detection of infectious diseases, cancer, and genetic diseases. Commercially available amplification systems suffer from low throughput and require decontamination schemes, significant hands-on time, and specially trained laboratory staff. Our objective was to develop a DNA probe system to overcome these limitations.
Methods: We developed a DNA probe system, the BDProbeTecTMET, based on simultaneous strand displacement amplification and real-time fluorescence detection. The system uses sealed microwells to minimize the release of amplicons to the environment. To avoid the need for specially trained labor, the system uses a simple workflow with predispensed reagent devices; a programmable, expandable-spacing pipettor; and the 96-microwell format. Amplification and detection time was 1 h, with potential throughput up to 564 patient results per shift. We tested 122 total patient specimens obtained from a family practice clinic with the BD ProbeTecET and the Abbott LCx® amplified system for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Results: Based on reportable results, the BDProbeTecET results for both organisms were 100% sensitive and 100% specific relative to the LCx.
Conclusions: The BDProbeTecET is an easy-to-use, high-throughput, closed amplification system for the detection of nucleic acid from C.trachomatis and N.gonorrhoeae and other organisms.
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