Abstract: A composition for use in amplifying cDNA synthesized by a reverse transcription reaction and detecting RNA that serves as a template of the reverse transcription reaction, the composition containing a thermostable DNA polymerase, a thermostable ribonuclease H, and an intercalating dye. Since the composition of the present invention can suppress the influences to the nucleic acid amplification reaction by RNA that serves as a template for cDNA synthesis, the composition is useful in the detection of RNA, and more useful in quantification of RNA having a desired sequence by real-time RT-PCR.

Abstract: A centrifugation method for separating a high specific gravity substance and a low specific gravity substance from a mixture thereof, which prevents the contamination of the high specific gravity substance in collecting the low specific gravity substance after a separation operation, is provided. The centrifugation method includes centrifuging a mixture comprising a high specific gravity substance, a low specific gravity substance, and at least one of a thermoreversible gel and a dissolved gelling agent capable of forming a thermoreversible gel, in which the thermoreversible gel or the dissolved gelling agent forms a gel layer which separates the low specific gravity substance and the high specific gravity substance. The centrifugation is preferably carried out at a temperature equal to or lower than the gelation temperature of the gelling agent.

Abstract: A composition for use in amplifying cDNA synthesized by a reverse transcription reaction and detecting RNA that serves as a template of the reverse transcription reaction, the composition containing a thermostable DNA polymerase, a thermostable ribonuclease H, and an intercalating dye. Since the composition of the present invention can suppress the influences to the nucleic acid amplification reaction by RNA that serves as a template for cDNA synthesis, the composition is useful in the detection of RNA, and more useful in quantification of RNA having a desired sequence by real-time RT-PCR.

Abstract: A method for isolating a nucleic acid from a cell-containing sample by using a magnet with a removable cover attached thereto and a plurality of containers arranged on a table, the plurality of containers having (1) a first container for mixing a cell-containing sample and magnetic beads to which cells can be adhered, (2) a cleaning tank for cleaning the magnetic beads with cells adhering thereto, and (3) a second container for heating the cleaned magnetic beads, the method includes: mixing a liquid including cell-containing sample and magnetic beads in the cell-containing sample in the first container so as to adhere cells in the cell-containing sample to magnetic beads; taking out the magnetic beads from the first container and cleaning the magnetic beads; and suspending the magnetic beads in a re-suspension buffer in the second container and heating the second container at 80 to 120° C. for 20 to 30°.