The preimplantation-embryo-development (Ped) gene, a gene that controls the cleavage rate of preimplantation mouse embryos, maps to the Qa-2 subregion of the mouse major histocompatibility complex (MHC). A highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) procedure was used to detect Qa-2 antigens on mouse embryos. The use of a monoclonal antibody specific for Qa-2 antigens showed that Qa-2 antigens were present on oocytes, 2-cell, 8-cell, and blastocyst-stage embryos, with the greatest expression found on blastocysts. Expression of Qa-2 antigens by the embryos correlated completely with Ped gene phenotype. Those embryos expressing the fast Ped allele showed the presence of Qa-2 antigens (Qa-2a mice), whereas those embryos expressing the slow Ped allele showed the absence of Qa-2 antigens (Qa-2b mice). It is hypothesized that the Qa-2 antigen may be the Ped gene product.
The authors have developed a cellular analysis platform, based on encoded microcarriers, that enables the multiplexed analysis of a diverse range of cellular assays. At the core of this technology are classes of microcarriers that have unique, identifiable codes that are deciphered using CCD-based imaging and subsequent image analysis. The platform is compatible with a wide variety of cellular imaging-based assays, including calcium flux, reporter gene activation, cytotoxicity, and proliferation. In addition, the platform is compatible with both colorimetric and fluorescent readouts. Notably, this technology has the unique ability to multiplex different cell lines in a single microplate well, enabling scientists to perform assays and data analysis in novel
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