Patent ID: 6251247
Filing Date: 2001-06-26
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method of detecting degradation of RNA present in a sample by using, as an indicator, rRNA included in the RNA, comprising the steps of:loading the sample onto an injection channel at a loading point located downstream of a crossing point where the injection channel and a microchannel meet, said injection channel and said microchannel being plastic capillary channels having a width of approximately 100-200 .mu.m filled with an electrophoresis separation gel, said injection channel having an unbranched straight portion extending from the loading point to the crossing point, said microchannel having an unbranched straight portion extending from the crossing point to a detection point located between the crossing point and a distal end of the microchannel;generating a first voltage gradient between the loading point and a distal end of the injection channel until rRNA fragments present in the sample are forced to migrate through the electrophoresis separation gel and reach the crossing point;when the rRNA fragments reach the crossing point, generating a second voltage gradient between the crossing point and the distal end of the microchannel, said second voltage gradient being greater than said first voltage gradient, thereby conducting electrophoresis of the rRNA fragments;detecting rRNA fragments passing through the detection point located downstream of the crossing point, to obtain detection patterns; anddetermining degradation of RNA present in the sample based on the detection patterns of rRNA.