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Updated: Jun 1, 2026

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Single Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction for Comprehensive and Simultaneous Detection of Mutations in Hotspot Regions
Published on: September 25, 2018
Simple and precise detection of UGT1A1 polymorphisms with a modified loop-hybrid mobility shift assay using
Shoichi Matsukuma1, Haruhiro Saito, Kozo Yamada
1Molecular Pathology and Genetics Division, Kanagawa Cancer Center Research Institute, Asahi-ku, Yokohama, Japan.
Summary
A new loop-hybrid mobility shift assay accurately detects UGT1A1 gene variants (*28 and *6) linked to irinotecan sensitivity. This method enables simultaneous genotyping for improved patient care.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Irinotecan, a topoisomerase I inhibitor, is a key anti-cancer drug.
- Patient hypersensitivity to irinotecan is linked to UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms (*28 and *6).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a precise and user-friendly method for determining UGT1A1 *28 TA repeat polymorphisms.
- To enable simultaneous detection of UGT1A1 *28 and *6 variants.
Main Methods:
- A modified loop-hybrid mobility shift assay was employed.
- A Cy5-tagged loop-hybrid probe was utilized for enhanced detection.
- The assay focused on determining TA repeat polymorphisms at the UGT1A1 *28 locus.
Main Results:
- The modified method successfully detected specific loop-hybrid bands using Cy5-fluorescent signals.
- Irregular electrophoretic bands were observed but did not interfere with detection.
- Simultaneous typing of *28 and *6 variants was achieved in a single assay lane.
Conclusions:
- The developed loop-hybrid mobility shift assay provides a precise and efficient method for UGT1A1 genotyping.
- Simultaneous detection of *28 and *6 variants facilitates rapid assessment of irinotecan sensitivity.
- This assay has potential applications in personalized cancer therapy.

