Devices and processes for analyzing nucleic acid damage and repair using electrophoresis

摘要

Systems, methods, and devices are provided for assessing DNA damage and repair in cells by measuring DNA migration under electrophoresis. In one exemplary embodiment, a microarray configured to hold cells in a predetermined spatial relationship is employed to improve accuracy, speed, and reliability of such measurements. In another embodiment, a self-contained cassette having a matrix material disposed therein can be used to create a substantially uniform environment for analyzing DNA damage and repair. Fluid can be circulated through the cell to assist in creating spatial patterns on the matrix material, or alternatively, the matrix material can already include a microarray pattern disposed thereon. Various methods and systems that take advantage of such microarrays and cassettes are also provided.

主权项

1. A method for analyzing a nucleic acid, comprising:
disposing at least one cell having DNA to be analyzed into each of a plurality of spatially-defined cell capture locations formed in a solidified matrix material; positioning an overlay over the matrix material; utilizing the overlay to apply at least one reagent to at least one cell capture location of the plurality of spatially defined cell capture locations or a portion of the matrix material; and analyzing at least one cell following application of the reagent for nucleic acid fragmentation.