Analysis of DNA fragments

Isolating RNA from tissues and paraffin-embedded tissue samples can be challenging due to cross-linking of biomolecules and fragmented nucleic acids. The best solution is to slice the tissues into smaller pieces and make a homogenate solution (using tissue homogenizer or grinding liquid nitrogen frozen samples) in presence of RNAse inhibitors. The homogenization process should be carried out on dry ice to maintain the integrity of RNA.

Isolating RNA from tissues and paraffin-embedded tissue samples can be challenging due to cross-linking of biomolecules and fragmented nucleic acids. The best solution is to slice the tissues into smaller pieces and make a homogenate solution (using tissue homogenizer or grinding liquid nitrogen frozen samples) in presence of RNAse inhibitors. The homogenization process should be carried out on dry ice to maintain the integrity of RNA

Get tips on using Corning® 500 mL Iscove’s Modification of DMEM to perform 3D Cell Culture Media hiPSC-derived lung organoids

Get tips on using Accell Human VDAC1 (7416) siRNA - Set of 4 to perform siRNA / miRNA gene silencing Human - HCT-116 VDAC1

Get tips on using Accell Human VDAC1 (7416) siRNA - Set of 4 to perform siRNA / miRNA gene silencing Human - Min-6 VDAC1

Get tips on using Accell Human VDAC1 (7416) siRNA - Set of 4 to perform siRNA / miRNA gene silencing Human - PC-3 VDAC1

Get tips on using Accell Human VDAC1 (7416) siRNA - Set of 4 to perform siRNA / miRNA gene silencing Human - PANC-1 VDAC1

As autophagy is a multi-step process which includes not just the formation of autophagosomes, but most importantly, flux through the entire system, including the degradation upon fusion with lysosomes, which makes it quite challenging for detection. There are several methods for detection in mammalian cells, including immunoblotting analysis of LC3 and p62 and detection of autophagosome formation/maturation by fluorescence microscopy, Currently, there is no single “gold standard” for determining the autophagic activity that is applicable in every experimental context, hence it is recommended to go for the combined use of multiple methods to accurately assess the autophagic activity in any given biological setting.

As autophagy is a multi-step process which includes not just the formation of autophagosomes, but most importantly, flux through the entire system, including the degradation upon fusion with lysosomes, which makes it quite challenging for detection. There are several methods for detection in mammalian cells, including immunoblotting analysis of LC3 and p62 and detection of autophagosome formation/maturation by fluorescence microscopy, Currently, there is no single “gold standard” for determining the autophagic activity that is applicable in every experimental context, hence it is recommended to go for the combined use of multiple methods to accurately assess the autophagic activity in any given biological setting.

Short hairpin or small hairpin RNA (shRNA) is artificial RNA, which has a hairpin loop structure, and uses inherent microRNA (miRNA) machinery to silence target gene expression. This is called RNA interference (RNAi). These can be delivered via plasmids or viral/bacterial vectors. Challenges in shRNA-mediated gene silencing include: 1. Off-target silencing, 2. Packaging shRNA encoding lentivirus, and 3. Stable transduction in cells. RNAi have been designed to have anywhere from 19-27 bs, but the most effective design has 19 bp. In case commercial shRNAs are not available, potential target sites can be chosen within exon, 5’- or 3’ UTR, depending on which splice variants of the gene are desired. One should use the latest algorithms and choose at least two different sequences, targeting different regions, in order to have confidence in overcoming off-target effects. A BLAST search after selecting potential design will eliminate potential off-target sequences. For the second challenge, sequencing the vector using primers for either strand (50-100 bp upstream) is suggested, along with using enzymatic digestion on agarose gel for the vector. Next, once the shRNA-containing vector is packaged in a virus, it is important to check the viral titer before transduction. Finally, using a marker in the lentiviral vector (fluorescent protein or antibiotic resistance), along with qPCR for target gene expression can help in determining efficacy of transduction and shRNA on its target site.