Faster, more cost-effective DNA test for disease diagnosis, crime scenes

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Faster, more cost-effective DNA test for crime scenes, disease diagnosis

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-07/acs-fmc070809.php

Scientists in Japan are reporting development of a faster, less expensive

version of the fabled polymerase chain reaction (PCR) a DNA test widely used in

criminal investigations, disease diagnosis, biological research and other

applications. The new method could lead to expanded use of PCR in medicine, the

criminal justice system and elsewhere, the researchers say. Their study is

scheduled for the July 15 issue of Analytical Chemistry, a semi-monthly journal.

In the new study, Naohiro Noda and colleagues note that PCR works by

" amplifying " previously undetectable traces of DNA almost like photocopiers

produce multiple copies of documents. With PCR, crime scene investigators can

change traces of DNA into amounts that can be identified and linked to a

suspect. Biologists can produce multiple copies of individual genes to study

gene function, evolution, and other topics. Doctors can amplify the DNA from

microbes in a patient's blood to diagnose an infection. Current PCR methods,

however, are too expensive and cumbersome for wide use.

The scientists describe development and testing of a new PCR method, called the

universal QProbe system, that overcomes these problems. Existing PCR processes

require several " fluorescent probes " to seek out DNA. QProbe substitutes a

single " fluorescent probe " that can detect virtually any target, saving time and

cutting costs. The new method also is more specific, accurately detecting DNA

even in the presence of unfavorable PCR products in the samples that may

interfere with quantification results.