When undertaking PCR reactions it is important to protect against contamination by DNA from any source. The PCR cabinet, reagents and equipment must be thoroughly decontaminated prior to a PCR process.
UV irradiation is an efficient steriliser, breaking down DNA sequences so that replication cannot occur in a subsequent amplification process. The necessary UV exposure times vary from as little as 5 minutes to a maximum of 30 minutes.
UV is effectively utilised in both the Bigneat UV Sterilisation Cabinet and the Bigneat PCR Workstation. The PCR Workstation additionally protects against contamination by bathing the PCR apparatus in sterile air and limiting risk of contamination from the operator’s arms, or from any equipment bought into the otherwise sterile environment. A positive pressure ensures that there is no ingress of airborne contaminants from the surrounding laboratory environment.
