 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Laboratory PersonnelAn essential element in any endeavor is the people...Lab Space and LayoutMost of the ongoing projects require an analysis of DNA variations which takes place in the Molecular Anthropology Laboratory. Almost every method used involves the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) which is a very powerful means of amplifying a specific region of DNA so that it can be analyzed above the background of the rest of the genome. This method is very powerful and also subject to cross-product contamination where previously amplified target DNA makes its way into later PCR reactions. This can be VERY serious, particularly if there are a large number of samples to be analyzed for a specified set of genetic markers.There are a number of ways to avoid PCR contamination. One critical element is to have separate rooms for PCR setup (pre-PCR) and for PCR product analysis (post-PCR). Molecular Biology ProtocolsThe laboratory methods for manipulating and analyzing nucleic acids have been perfected over the past 20 years. Some developments are very recent, while others are not. There are a number of good laboratory manuals which are available and students and researchers interested in molecular genetics are strongly advised to spend some quality time with these tomes (see below for references). We would like to present our versions of a few key protocols. Many of these have been adapted from the work of others and we have referenced the original protocol and highlighted the changes if any. May the force be with you.
|
