C.B.S. Scientific PP-048-202-SS - Manual (Page 13)

Optimizer PCR Workstation Instructions 3/2013 www.cbsscientific.com 12
SECTION 3
Instructions for Use
3.1 PCR Workstation ® Set-up
1. Place the Workstation on a level work surface in an authorized work area. Clean the PCR Workstation ® using
a soft cloth or Kaydry ® moistened with water. Wipe the Workstation surfaces to remove dust or particulates
inside and out. (The glass facia may be conveniently lifted to rest up and out of the way against top portion of
Workstation. This position can be used for easy access of interior for cleaning or for placement or removal of
large items.)
2. Wipe the Workstation a second time using a solution of 50% EtOH and water.
3. The fluorescent and germicidal lights are installed prior to shipment. The germicidal lamp(s) is in the single
fixture (on either side of the dual fluorescent light fixture) and should not be touched with your hands because
the oils from your fingers can degrade the bulb. Instead use a cloth to remove or install a germicidal lamp.
WARNING: UV light can be harmful to unprotected eyes and skin. Make sure of the following before using the
UV light:
a) Glass facia is down in resting position (glass blocks UV transmission)
b) Door closure(s) are in place. (Acrylic blocks UV transmission)
3.2 PCR Workstation® Experimental Set-up
1. The PCR Workstation ® is supplied with a 12 hour timer which allows you to turn the 254nm UV germicidal lamp
on for desired length of time. Typical protocols suggest UV irradiation of the Workstation interior as well as
reagents or apparatus for 30 minutes up to 8 hours prior to use. Please refer to the table below and Reference
(3) to determine the length of exposure time required to adequately decontaminate your Workstation. To use
the UV timer, make sure that the toggle switch on the Workstation is pre-set to UV, then turn the dial for desired
exposure interval.
WARNING: For your safety, close the door and glass facia before turning on the UV light.
2. After the timed exposure, switch the toggle back to fluorescent and the Workstation is ready for use .
3. The PCR Workstation ® is equipped with an ultraviolet lamp which emits light with a 254nm wavelength. When
solubilized DNA is exposed to this radiation adjacent thymine bases will be induced to form cyclobutane
pyrimidine dimers by the condensation of two ethylene groups at C-5 and C-6. Additionally, adjacent thymines
can be linked between the C-4 residue and the C-6 of its neighbor. In either case, a “kink” is introduced into the
DNA. Therefore, by pre-exposing the PCR work area with UV radiation, all DNA present will be photo-damaged
and will not be amplified by DNA polymerase (despite retaining the ability to be primed). Consequently, these
photo-damaged sequences will not contaminate your PCR amplification product. (4).
NOTE: It is recommended that the intensity of the germicidal bulb be tested weekly with a UV meter. Intensity
of the germicidal bulb will diminish over time, and exposure time should be adjusted as a result. See section
4.2.