Analyses of DNA by automated logging and processing of data from the analytical ultracentrifuge

✍ Scribed by A.H. Reisner

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1980
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 570 KB
• Volume: 105
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0003-2697
• DOI: 10.1016/0003-2697(80)90417-0

✦ Synopsis

Methods to log data from buoyant-density and zonal-sedimentation velocity centrifugations of DNA in an analytical instrument are described, as well as computer programs to analyze such data. It is simple and quick to determine modal molecular weights of DNA in neutral or alkaline solutions or buoyant densities in CsCI or Cs,SO,. An interactive program which simulates the DuPont curve resolver has also proved useful. Correction equations to convert scanner output to true absorbance were developed.

Automated data logging and data processing from the analytical ultracentrifuge became possible with the introduction of the photoelectric scanner (l-3).

Significant reductions in the cost of computer hardware together with improvements in hardware and software have made such automation accessible to almost any laboratory equipped with an up-to-date instrument.

The system described is for on-line data collection during centrifugation from up to five samples of DNA. The data are permanently stored on disk for processing at any time thereafter.