Automated polymerase chain reaction in capillary tubes with hot air.
We describe a simple, compact, inexpensive thermal cycler that can be used for the polymerase chain reaction. Based on heat transfer with air to samples in sealed capillary tubes, the apparatus resembles a recirculating hair dryer. The temperature is regulated via thermocouple input to a programmable set-point process controller that provides proportional output to a solid state relay controlling a heating coil. For efficient cooling after the denaturation step, the controller activates a solenoid that opens a door to vent hot air and allows cool air to enter. Temperature-time profiles and amplification results approximate those obtained using water baths and microfuge tubes.
Wittwer
C T
CT
Department of Pathology, University of Utah Medical School, Salt Lake City 84132.
Fillmore
G C
GC
Hillyard
D R
DR
D000388:Air; D001322:Autoanalysis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D004269:DNA, Bacterial / Q000235:genetics; D004259:DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase; D005784:Gene Amplification; D005898:Glass; D005914:Globins / Q000235:genetics; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D007700:Kinetics; D009691:Nucleic Acid Denaturation; D019914:Taq Polymerase
D004269:DNA, Bacterial; D005914:Globins; D019914:Taq Polymerase; D004259:DNA-Directed DNA Polymerase