SILVER STAIN REMOVAL BY CHEMICAL ETCHING AND SONICATION

摘要

This invention relates to methods for regenerating spent DNA detection chips for further use. Specifically, this invention relates to a method for removal of silver form used DNA detection chips that employ gold nanoparticle-oligonucleotide conjugate probes and that use silver staining for signal amplification. A first method comprises contacting the used silver stained DNA detection chip with a cyanide etching solution. A second method comprises subjecting the silver stained DNA detection chip having bound gold particles to ultrasound waves for a time sufficient to remove the silver stain. The sonication treatment removed the gold nanoparticles as well.