An evaluation of new gel matrices for the separation of PCR-amplified DNA fragments.

It has been shown that the novel gel matrix, PCR Purity Plus which consists of a vinyl-polymer of polyacrylamide, provides a superior and rapid means of separating DNA fragments. As this product has been discontinued, the two new commercial versions of this matrix (MDE and GeneAmp) with PCR Purity Plus were compared. Optimal conditions for resolving DNA fingerprint profiles for both matrices were defined. Both MDE and GeneAmp gels provided a clear separation of DNA fragments. However, the profiles obtained on GeneAmp gel were closest to that of PCR Purity Plus. These results should be useful to DNA fingerprinting studies where it is critical to obtain a clear resolution of complex DNA profiles.