Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method for the preparation of ribonucleic acid (RNA) samples. This method utilizes heat and guanidinium thiocyanate treatment of samples followed by alcohol precipitation and centrifugation to prepare RNA samples with a high degree of sensitivity, reliability, and ease of use. Importantly, the prevent invention provides a method in which RNA samples may be prepared so as to conserve RNA preservation and precipitation reagents and time. The samples so prepared are readily amplifiable and may be used for other purposes as well.

Abstract: Hybridization method for discriminating between complementarity and partial complementarity of DNA base sequences. Kinetic covalent entrapment of PCR-amplified target DNA is achieved through the use of crosslinkable probes. A crosslinking site is introduced into the target DNA via the PCR amplification process. Problems with renaturation of target DNA in the PCR process and in the hybridization reaction are minimized.

Abstract: The present invention provides a much simplified method for the preparation of nucleic acid samples. This method provides many advantages over prior sample preparation methods in terms of greater sensitivity, reliability and ease of use. Importantly, the present invention provides a method in which nucleic acid samples may be prepared so as to conserve reagents and time. The samples so prepared are readily amplifiable and may be used for other purposes as well.

Abstract: Methods for sterilization of ligase-based amplification products, including products of the Ligation Amplification Reaction (LAR), involving treatment of nucleic acid after amplification to render such nucleic acid incapable of serving as a template for further amplification. Both random and site-specific addition of sterilizing compounds, and more specifically, photoactivation compounds, render amplification product subsequently unamplifiable. Self-sterilizing primers are also employed allowing for a homogenous detection of ligase-based amplification product.

Abstract: The use of nucleic acid to diagnose disease is disclosed. The use of nucleic acid from at least one hair follicle to diagnose the presence of a human immunodeficiency virus infection is demonstrated.

Abstract: A method for activating photoreactive compounds by supporting sample vessels containing a photoreactive compound at a selected temperature and irradiating the sample vessels while holding the sample vessels at a fixed relationship with the irradiating source so as to uniformly irradiate the compound.

Abstract: Methods and compounds for the preparation of nucleic acid samples. Polymerase inhibitors are treated so as to allow for amplification of nucleic acid from biological sources, including whole blood.