Three-dimensional imaging of DNA fragments during electrophoresis using a confocal detector

Brewer, L.R., Davidson, J.C., Balch, J.W. and Carrano, A. (1995) Three-dimensional imaging of DNA fragments during electrophoresis using a confocal detector. In: Ultrasensitive Instrumentation for DNA Sequencing and Biochemical Diagnostics, San Jose, CA, 1 February, pp. 86-96. (doi: 10.1117/12.206035)

Abstract

We have measured the 3D distribution of DNA fragments within an electrophoretic band. The measurements were made using a confocal microscope and a photon counting photomultiplier detector. A DNA sequencing standard was loaded into glass microchannel plates containing polyacrylamide gel. The measurements were made by scanning the plates in three dimensions using a mechanical stage under computer control, while electrophoresis was taking place. We found that the distribution of DNA was the same for all the bands measured in the sequencing ladder with an approximate Gaussian distribution along all three axis. These measurements are important to understand what physical forces shape electrophoretic bands confined by a channel and also as an aid in the design of high throughput DNA sequencers.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Additional Information: Proc SPIE: vol. 2386
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Brewer, Dr Laurence
• Authors: Brewer, L.R., Davidson, J.C., Balch, J.W., and Carrano, A.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
• ISSN: 0277786X