Methods and apparatus for amplifying nucleic acids

摘要

Abstract A method of amplifying nucleic acid comprises providing a microfluidic device (10) having a space therein (32). The space (32) is filled with a gel medium (54). Reagents for carrying out a PCR reaction are supported within the matrix of the gel medium (54) within the space (32). A nucleic acid containing sample is brought into contact with the gel medium (54). The sample comprises whole cells or cell lysate without any prior separation of the nucleic acid from other components of the cells. PCR amplification of nucleic acid from the sample is performed in the space using the PCR reagents.