Abstract: The present invention contemplates a system for rapidly isolating nucleic acids. The system comprises an insoluble silica matrix and a buffered aqueous salt solution containing salt at a concentration of at least 3 molar and a buffering agent at a concentration sufficient to provide a buffering capacity corresponding to that which either tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane or phosphate ion at a concentration of 0.1 to 1 molar would provide in the solution. Methods of using the system are also contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention contemplates a system for rapidly isolating nucleic acids. The system comprises an insoluble silica matrix and a buffered aqueous salt solution containing salt at a concentration of at least 3 molar and a buffering agent at a concentration sufficient to provide a buffering capacity corresponding to that which either tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane or phosphate ion at a concentration of 0.1 to 1 molar would provide in the solution. Methods of using the system are also contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention contemplates a system for rapidly isolating nucleic acids. The system comprises an insoluble silica matrix and a buffered aqueous salt solution containing salt at a concentration of at least 3 molar and a buffering agent at a concentration sufficient to provide a buffering capacity corresponding to that which either tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane or phosphate ion at a concentration of 0.1 to 1 molar would provide in the solution. Methods of using the system are also contemplated.

Abstract: Multiple, typically 5+, trays of an identical special configuration are vertically stacked one atop the next, end-to-end reversed. Each tray has an overflow feature, normally in the form of either (i) a portion of a side that is reduced in height so as to form a lip, (ii) a corner hole protected by a removable baffle of selectable height, or (iii) a threaded standpipe that may be screwed to variable height. The overflow feature permits that liquid will overflow each tray only upon reaching a predetermined height in a reservoir of the tray. A liquid poured in the top tray cascades downwards from tray to tray, filling each tray to a uniform even level and ultimately reaching the bottom tray of the stack. The liquid that is within each tray is permitted to gel, forming thereby a gel state material that is suitable to receive samples upon which electrophoresis may be conducted. Combination spacer and toothed comb elements are optionally inserted between the stacked trays.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying the presence of biological molecules labeled with isotopes that are identifiable and distinguishable by their responses to nuclear magnetic resonance. The method features the use of labels that are:1) not radioactive or only weakly radioactive, therefore not hazardous to handle, and have a long storage life.2) small in molecular weight, thus not significantly changing the electrophoresis migration rate of the labeled material.3) available as several distinguishable labels, thereby enabling simultaneous detection of several classes of molecules.