GE provides an amplified target

GE Healthcare, of Chalfont St Giles, UK has launched the illustra Hot Start Master Mix, a novel approach to amplifying target DNA sequences that provides increased levels of PCR specificity and efficiency compared with conventional techniques.

The Hot Start Master Mix's innovative system achieves hot start activation by sequestering primer until the template DNA is denatured. It then releases the PCR primers before the cycle of amplification primer, template annealing, extension, and denaturation then proceeds using traditional thermal cycling protocols.

Unlike hot start PCR systems that rely on chemically modified or antibody-based methods, this system does not interfere with the thermostable polymerase and consequently there is no loss of enzyme efficiency. It is through this effective inhibition of the primer that the system maximises target amplification specificity and efficiency for better overall PCR results.

"The primer sequestration technique used for hot start activation maintains sample integrity better than chemical inactivation or antibody blocking approaches, giving customers greater confidence in downstream processes," said Rupert Jones, global marketing manager at GE Healthcare. "GE Healthcare customers who rely on PCR amplification as a critical research tool will benefit from the high specificity, accuracy, and PCR product yield achieved with the illustra Hot Start Master Mix."