DNA fragment analysis by an affordable multiple-channel capillary electrophoresis system

We are demonstrating a cost-effective multichannel capillary electrophoresis system for a high-efficiency double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) fragments analysis. This bench-type high-performance DNA analysis (HDA) system uses fluorescence-type detection with inexpensive solid-state light sources and nonmoving integrated emission collection micro-optics. DNA samples are analyzed simultaneously by using a multiple usage and disposable multicapillary cartridge, which contains integrated capillary channels, optical fibers and an integrated sieving gel reservoir. Using commercially available dsDNA size markers as indicators, the HDA system provides high resolving power in 7 min separations. The system can hold a total of 192 samples in two 96-well polymerase chain reaction (PCR) plates, which can be automatically analyzed within 2.5 h. This affordable system can be used in laboratories to replace slab gel electrophoresis for routine and high-throughput dsDNA analysis.