2. Introduction
One of the most widely used techniques in the molecular biology field is the
immobilization of DNA and RNA onto a solid support membrane and subsequent
hybridizations with a specific single stranded probe, labeled to facilitate its
detection.
Using the GE Healthcare Hybridization Oven/Shaker ensures that the temperature
and shaking/rotation frequency, and hence the stringency of hybridization and
washing steps are rigidly controlled. This enables rapid and reproducible probing of
nucleic acids, and proteins immobilized on nylon and nitrocellulose membranes.
The GE Healthcare Hybridization Oven/Shaker is a multipurpose instrument
combining accurate temperature control with a choice of interchangeable
hybridization modes:
• Variablespeedrotisserie:holding7× 40 mm or 2 × 75 and 2 × 40 mm
hybridization bottles.
• Avariablespeedplatformshakerfor‘box’ hybridizations,depurination,
denaturation and neutralization steps.
The instrument is:
• Economical: bottle hybridization minimizes probe volumes, reducing reagent
volumes and enhancing signal intensity.
• Precise: stringency of hybridization and washing steps are rigidly controlled,
ensuring reproducible results.
• Sensitive: validated protocols ensure optimal hybridization and washing steps,
enhancing multiple reprobing when using Hybond™ membranes.
• Safe: the double-glazed polycarbonate/acrylic door offers excellent thermal
insulation whilst minimizing radiation exposure.
• Convenient: small foot-print maximizes the use of limited laboratory space.
The instrument is suitable for use in conjunction with radiolabeled probes
using Rapid-hyb™ buffer, non-radioactive nucleic acid labeling and detection
systems such as AlkPhos Direct™, and protein labeling and detection systems
including ECL™, ECL Plus™ and ECL Advance™. Some protocols for use with these
applications are included in section 7.
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