Prof. Norman Dovichi, University of Washington

Ultrasensitive bioanalysis

The coupling of capillary electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence detection has resulted in a tool with unprecedented performance IN bioanalysis. Capillary electrophoresis routinely produces separation efficiency over 1,000,000 theoretical plates. By coupling different forms of electrophoresis, two-dimensional capillary electrophoresis produces separations with over 1,000 resolution elements. Laser-induced fluorescence produces detection limits in the zepto- to yoctomole range, with single molecule detection possible in favorable cases. The technology played a key role in the sequencing of the human genome, and is now being developed for chemical cytometry, which is the analysis of the composition of single cells.

For more information contact Dr. Andrew Lyon (404-894-4090).