MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding RNAs that play a fundamental role in gene regulation and have critical functions across various biological processes. Pairing to mRNAs of protein-coding genes, they direct posttranscriptional repression by altering the stability or translational efficiency of their target mRNAs. Recent studies indicate that miRNAs are involved in the development of human malignancies, suggesting that they represent a promising new class of cancer biomarkers. Identifying miRNAs involved in specific cancers could provide useful diagnostic information, allow disease classification and reveal potential treatment targets. MPEA: On-Chip Labeling for Highest Sensitivity Enzymatic labeling assay requires minimal sample amount In addition to the standard hybridization of pre-labeled RNA, the microfluidic Geniom Biochip enables a highly sensitive enzymatic labeling protocol. MPEA benefits * Higher sensitivity and specificity * miRNA hybridization without preceding treatment like enrichment, PCR -based amplification or labeling eliminates potential bias * High discriminatory power * Minimal amount of sample RNA needed (more than or equal 20 ng total RNA) * Easy to use protocol for Geniom RT Analyzer The unique Microfluidic Primer Extension Assay (MPEA) uses unlabeled miRNAs for hybridization. In a second step, Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase I is added directly into the channels of the microfluidic chip, where the specific elongation of the bound miRNAs takes place. The method combines the specificity of a hybridization assay with the discriminatory power of an enzymatic extension and reduces the required sample amount to a minimum. Details provided at www.febit.com
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