Cardiff Metropolitan University - Molecular Biology Core

Molecular Biology Suite

When undertaking molecular biology, and in particular PCR, reduction of cross-contamination cannot be over-emphasised. The great strength of PCR is its ability to amplify very small quantities of DNA. While this property makes PCR a very powerful technique however, it also makes it particularly susceptible to contamination.

In order to maintain cleanliness and reduce the chances of cross-contamination, the molecular biology suite is comprised of two separate laboratories. Each laboratory has its own lab coats, supply of gloves and dedicated pipettes.

The two laboratories which make up the molecular biology suite are designated as follows:-

Molecular Biology Pre

This laboratory is designed for the preparation and processing of materials prior to their downstream analysis.

The laboratory itself I divided into 2 halves – one for DNA, the other for RNA.

It is to be used, amongst other things, for DNA/RNA extraction, cDNA conversion and PCR preparation.

Equipment in this laboratory includes:

QIAcube (QIAGEN) automated DNA, RNA and protein extraction system
NanoDrop ND1000 (Labtech International) low volume spectrophotometer
Agilent Bioanalyzer
Molecular Biology Post

Where materials generated in the “Pre” lab are processed. Work activities include PCR, Real-Time PCR, gel preparation and analysis.

Equipment in this laboratory includes:

2 x Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast (Real-Time PCR)
2 x Thermal cyclers (PCR)
Gel Electrophoresis Equipment
UVP Auto-Chemi gel documentation system (Visualisation/Densitometry)