Abstract: The development of the network structure and the basic modules of an automated 4-color DNA sequencing apparatus comprising more than one thousand capillary electrophoresis lanes is disclosed. The basic modules represent small 32-lane units based on multicolor excitation of fluorescent labels and single-photon detection. The individual units operate asynchronously, controlled by a network computer. Excitation of fluorescence is done with low-power illumination via a fiber-optic network.

Abstract: A novel method of spatial compression of a DNA sample inside the capillary for the gel capillary electrophoresis and an article for operating the method are disclosed. In this method, after the electrokinetic injection, the sample is compressed using the reverse electric field. A special DNA barrier material is used to contain the sample in the capillary. We expect that this Electro Static Compression (ESC) can increase the DNA concentration in the capillary by orders of magnitude. In the proposed method and article the injection and compression of the DNA sample are followed by subsequent electrophoretic separation in any kind of sequencing container (for instance glass capillary). The use of the ESC method will allow the increase of the length and the quality of the read, as well as reduction of the DNA consumption.

Abstract: A multichannel electrophoretic cassette structure is disclosed comprising distinct regions for loading and detection with different spacing between channels. A method and an apparatus are further disclosed enabling multicolor fluorescent detection from a non-coplanar bundle of multiple channels. A method for fabricating monolithic multichannel cassettes for electrophoresis and fluorescent detection is also described.