Abstract: Exemplary embodiments include a sample collection device having a tube with an inner seal producing a sequestered lower compartment. In certain embodiments, the sequestered compartment may have a stabilizing reagent. The device may also have a cap suited towards the sample type being stored in the tube. In some cases, the cap may pierce the inner seal to allow a liquid sample to mix with the stabilizing reagent. In the case of liquid samples, a funnel may be used to aid in the deposition of the sample. In other cases, a swab or similar collection tool can be inserted into the tube, piercing the inner seal, and the cap will retain the swab in the cap. The device can be used for the collection of saliva, swab, or other samples at home without clinical supervision. The samples can be transported and stored for further analysis of the sample for DNA, RNA, or other biological components.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for the identification and/or quantification of microbes. In particular, the methods comprise: (a) extracting DNA from a microbial sample; (b) performing 16S ribosomal RNA gene-targeted sequencing to obtain DNA sequences; and (c) analyzing the DNA sequences to identify the species of the one or more microbes.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for the identification and/or quantification of microbes. In particular, the methods comprise: (a) extracting DNA from a microbial sample; (b) performing 16S ribosomal RNA gene-targeted sequencing to obtain DNA sequences; and (c) analyzing the DNA sequences to identify the species of the one or more microbes.

Abstract: Provided herein are aqueous compositions, kits and methods for the stabilization of cell-free nucleic acids. Provided herein are aqueous compositions for the stabilization of a cell-free nucleic acid (cfNA) population in a blood sample. In certain embodiments, the aqueous composition comprises a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), an apoptosis inhibitor and one or more eryptosis inhibitors.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices and methods for sample isolation comprising a planar member configured to rotate around a bearing, and a plurality of apertures positioned at an angle to the planar member. Exemplary embodiments relate generally to the field of sample isolation, and more particularly to sample isolation using centrifugal and magnetic forces.

Abstract: Solutions, reagents, and methods for nucleic acid purification. In certain aspects, cationic surfactant and, optionally, an anionic surfactant solutions are provided which can be used for phase separation and capture of nucleic acids, such as plasmid or genomic DNA, to a solid phase carrier, such as a mineral matrix.

Abstract: In a first aspect, the invention concerns a method for detecting or quantifying DNA methylation at a locus. In one embodiment, a methylation-sensitive endonuclease is formulated together with a polymerase enzyme in an appropriate reaction mixture such that amplification of DNA occurs in a methylation specific manor. Quantitative DNA amplification at selected loci can be used to determine the level of methylation. Kits and reagents for performing such methods are also provided.

Abstract: Methods are provided for determining a genomic methylation profile in a DNA sample. In certain aspects, the methods can be used to determine if a subject has, or is at risk for developing, a bladder cancer or other cancers of the urinary tract. Methods for treatment of such subjects are likewise provided.

Abstract: Methods and composition for nucleic acid isolation are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided for nucleic acid purification from biological samples, such as whole blood samples, extracted with phenol-based denaturing solvents, which does not require phase separation or nucleic acid precipitation. Methods according to the invention may also be used for of small RNAs (e.g., siRNAs or miRNAs) purification and are amenable to automation.

Abstract: Methods and composition for nucleic acid isolation are provided. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for nucleic acid purification from biological samples extracted with phenol-based denaturing solvents, which does not require phase separation or nucleic acid precipitation. Methods according to the invention may also be used for differential isolation of RNA and DNA.

Abstract: Apparatuses, kits, and methods for portable sample disruption (e.g., for encouraging cell lysis).

Abstract: Methods and composition for nucleic acid isolation are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided for nucleic acid purification from biological samples, such as whole blood samples, extracted with phenol-based denaturing solvents, which does not require phase separation or nucleic acid precipitation. Methods according to the invention may also be used for of small RNAs (e.g., siRNAs or miRNAs) purification and are amenable to automation.

Abstract: Apparatuses, kits, and methods for portable sample disruption (e.g., for encouraging cell lysis).

Abstract: Methods and composition for nucleic acid isolation are provided. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for nucleic acid purification from biological samples extracted with phenol-based denaturing solvents, which does not require phase separation or nucleic acid precipitation. Methods according to the invention may also be used for differential isolation of RNA and DNA.