A SIMPLIFIED METHOD of COLONY HYBRIDIZATION USING RADIOLABELED PROBES IN SEALED PETRI DISHES

A simplified colony hybridization procedure was developed using sealed disposable plastic petri dishes in place of sealed plastic bags. Prior to hybridization, the dishes were sealed with successive layers of parafilm, plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent evaporation of the solution. This self-contained procedure eliminates some of the technical problems such as spilling of radioactive materials, leakage of solution, sealing of plastic bags and the formation of air bubbles. Therefore, this method allows for safer and easier handling of radioactive materials during hybridization procedures.