Gene Tagging

Samples of DNA are applied to a glass slide in a series of microscopic wells. An enzyme is used to produce complimentary DNA (cDNA) which is labeled with a fluorescent dye. The cDNA is then washed over the glass slide. Wherever DNA and cDNA match up, a bond is created.

By using the DPSS Series 3500 UV Laser, researchers can fluoresce the bonded wells and generate an illuminated array of hybridized bonds without damaging the samples. The original DNA in each well is known, therefore the illuminated array can help researchers determine the origin or functionality of the unknown enzyme. Since the fluorescence is of a longer wavelength than the native illuminating laser, the signal to noise ratio can be extremely high, thereby increasing the sensitivity of the measurement.