Abstract: The present invention provides for a novel system and method for amplification and detection of nucleic acids within a miniaturized device.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a novel system and method for amplification and detection of nucleic acids within a miniaturized device.

Abstract: A method for cryopreserving cells entails the liposomal delivery of intracellular sugar(s), such as trehalose, sucrose, raffinose, stachyose, and combinations thereof, into cells and tissues, such as red blood cells, for enhancing post-thaw viability. This method enables rapid and easy delivery of protective molecules into cells which thus greatly simplifies the preparation of cells for cryopreservation. Furthermore, as much lower concentrations of intracellular protectant are used, the method allows red blood cells containing the liposomally-delivered intracellular sugar to be transfused into a patient immediately following the thaw without having to first remove any of the cryoprotectant sugar.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to devices and methods for the preservation of cells using drying, freezing, and other related techniques. In one set of embodiments, the invention allows for the preservation of cells in a dried state. In another set of embodiments, the invention allows for the preservation of cells within a glass or other non-viscous, non-frozen media. In some embodiments, the invention allows for the preservation of cells at temperatures below the freezing point of water, and in some cases at cryogenic temperatures, without inducing ice formation. The cells, in certain embodiments, may be preserved in the presence of intracellular and/or extracellular carbohydrates (which may be the same or different), for example, trehalose and sucrose. Carbohydrates may be transported intracellularly by any suitable technique, for example, using microinjection, or through non-microinjected methods such as through pore-forming proteins, electroporation, heat shock, etc.