biotin-11-dutp and Anemia--Sickle-Cell

Earlier, we reported that the 5' end of the normal beta-globin gene (beta) resides on a 1.14-kilobase DNA fragment, whereas the 5' end of the sickle cell gene (beta s) resides on a 1.34-kilobase fragment. In that blot hybridization analysis, we used genomic DNA digested with restricted endonuclease Mst II, and radioactive probes with short half-life. We demonstrate here that, if a biotinylated probe is used instead in a slightly modified procedure, sickle cell anemia can be quickly and directly detected if there is as much as 5 micrograms of total genomic DNA in the sample. This procedure obviates the special precautions necessary when radioactive materials are used.

Topics: Anemia, Sickle Cell; Biotin; Colorimetry; Deoxyribonucleases, Type II Site-Specific; Deoxyuracil Nucleotides; DNA; DNA Restriction Enzymes; Electrophoresis, Agar Gel; Globins; Humans; Methods; Nucleic Acid Hybridization