An oligodeoxynucleotide primer hybridized to mRNA is extended by an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to create a cDNA copy that can be amplified by PCR. Depending on the purpose of the experiment, the primer for first-strand cDNA synthesis can be specifically designed to hybridize to a particular target gene, or a general primer such as oligo(dT) can be used to prime cDNA synthesis from essentially all mammalian mRNAs - [Read Amplification of cDNA Generated by Reverse Transcription of mRNA Protocol]
This protocol describes a stepwise procedure to prepare nucleic acids encapsulated in a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-shielded nanolipoparticle (NLP) that contain a bioresponsive lipid and ligand. This process provides several advantages for systemic gene delivery. The in vivo circulation time is extended. Also, low pH-sensitive lipids enhance DNA unpacking and endosomal escape. Finally, ligands inserted into the NLP surface can target gene delivery to specific tissues or cells in vivo. - [Read Bioresponsive Targeted Charge Neutral Lipid Vesicles for Systemic Gene Delivery Protocol]
Method assesses cellular mRNA transcripts in tissue sections and cell cultures using unique short anti-sense primers directed against sequences in particular protein(s). The unlabeled synthetic cDNA oligonucleotide primers are extended complementary to a sense mRNA transcript using reverse transcriptase and labeled through incorporation of a fluorescent-labeled dUTP nucleotide base. This procedure provides rapid detection of low abundance mRNA messages that can be related to other cellular.... - [Read Fluorescent In Situ Transcription in Cells and Tissues Protocol]
Protocol for pulsed-field gel electrophoresis via contour-clamped homogeneous electric field gels. In CHEF gels, the electric field is generated from multiple electrodes, arranged in a square of hexagonal contour around the horizontal gel and clamped to predetermined potentials. Using a combination of low field strengths, low concentrations of aragose, long switching intervals, and extended periods of electrophoresis, DNAs up to 5000 kb can be resolved. - [Read Pulsed-field Gel Electrophoresis via Contour-clamped Homogeneous Electric Field Gels Protocol]
Several methods have been developed to "retrieve" antigens that have been masked by fixation. The principle behind using the microwave oven method described here is to use extended periods of heat to break some of the subcellular structures that block antibody access. Be aware that any of the antigen retrieval methods should be avoided wherever possible, because they may introduce artifactual false-positive staining. - [Read Unmasking Hidden Epitopes Using the Microwave Oven Protocol]
The principle behind the pressure cooker method described here is to use extended periods of heat to break some of the subcellular structures that block antibody access. This approach is appropriate for handling specimens on glass slides. The major advantages of the pressure cooker method are the ability to handle a large number of slides simultaneously, the convenience of using metal racks, and the avoidance of any hot spots that are found in the microwave. - [Read Unmasking Hidden Epitopes Using the Pressure Cooker Protocol]