Primed in situ DNA amplification (PIDA).

A novel PCR in situ protocol is described which can be implemented in one day. An initial amplification step with a single primer pair is followed by an amplification with an internal oligonucleotide probe with labeled nucleotides (dig-dUTP). Detection is then accomplished with an antidigoxigenin antibody and substrate solution. This rapid and sensitive method may be useful in diagnosing low copy DNA in tissue specimens and cells.