A Semi-Quantitative PCR Method for the Detection of Low Levels of Apoptotic DNA Fragmentation in a Heart Failure Model

Abstract

Cells that are apoptotic and comprise less than 2% of the total cellular population are difficult to detect by conventional methods (i.e., DNA ladder). We discuss a new methodological technique, PCR-amplified DNA ladder, to detect very low levels of DNA fragmentation (indicative of apoptosis) in a myocardial infarct heart failure model. Results and methodology are contrasted with the traditional DNA ladder technique.