Molecular diagnostic techniques utilize capillary electrophoresis (CE) extensively. Automation, microvolume samples, increased sensitivity, immediate detection, and the computerization provided by CE enhance the analysis of nucleic acids. A multiple fluorescence detection system available with CE is also valuable.
CE analysis of short tandem repeat polymorphisms is used in forensics, parentage testing, bone marrow engraftment analysis, and other identification assays. Other testing for the diagnosis of genetic diseases, oncology studies, and DNA sequencing frequently utilize CE. DNA sequencing uses CE to separate nucleotides labeled with multiple colored fluorescence dyes; CE and these markers enable computerized determination of the nucleotide sequence of DNA segments.
