A new technique makes it easier for single molecules of DNA to be stretched out and imaged, which could lead to faster detection of genetic abnormalities in human embryos.
The technique involves putting single DNA molecules in a liquid on top a bed of nano-sized grooves, then gently lowering a curved ‘lid’ on top. As the lid descends, the DNA straightens out into the groove which act as a mould; the molecule can then be imaged with a fluorescence microscope.
Current techniques rely on breaking DNA into small bits and require lots of DNA to work. This gentler technique is ideal for situation where the DNA of a single cell needs to be examined, such as detecting genetic abnormalities in eggs used for in vitro fertilization.
Original research paper published in PNAS on August 4, 2014.
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