Abstract: The present invention refers to a method for the detection of the c.-124 C>T and c.-146 C>T mutations in Htert gene promoter. The referred method uses a reaction composition that comprises primers for amplification and probes for genotyping. Another aspect of this invention refers the primers and probes used in performing the aforementioned method with sequences, identified as SEQ ID nr.1 to SEQ ID nr.6, that display high specificity for these mutations, as well as compositions that contain them. The present invention further refers to a kit comprising the above mentioned compositions for detecting mutations c.-124 C>T and c.-146 C>T mutations in Htert gene promoter by conducting the present method invention. The method, gene sequences, compositions and kit of the present invention can be advantageously used for detecting trace amounts of c.-124 C>T and c.-146 C>T mutations, present in biological samples due to its high sensitivity and specificity for such mutations.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a portable device for the collection of biological samples. The device comprises a receptacle (8) with a cover (2), which comprises a pierceable area (3) and may include a collection instrument (1), comprising a rod (4), and a collection arrangement at the end, which may include a solid matrix, for instance a sponge or a tampon (5). The receptacle (8) has a rounded or conical shaped bottom (10), at the center of which there is a conical or rounded-shaped projection (11), with one or more holes (12). The bottom of the receptacle (8) is in contact with a collector recipient through a system of close-aperture, which may comprise screw or a fitting system with protrusions (13). In this way, the device referred in the present invention allows for the collection, storage, transportation and separation of biological material without significant manipulation and without risk of cross-contamination.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a portable device for the collection of biological samples. The device comprises a receptacle (8) with a cover (2), which comprises a pierceable area (3) and may include a collection instrument (1), comprising a rod (4), and a collection arrangement at the end, which may include a solid matrix, for instance a sponge or a tampon (5). The receptacle (8) has a rounded or conical shaped bottom (10), at the center of which there is a conical or rounded-shaped projection (11), with one or more holes (12). The bottom of the receptacle (8) is in contact with a collector recipient through a system of close-aperture, which may comprise screw or a fitting system with protrusions (13). In this way, the device referred in the present invention allows for the collection, storage, transportation and separation of biological material without significant manipulation and without risk of cross-contamination.