Merck Millipore has introduced its latest range of Magna ChIRP RNA interactome kits, designed to allow researchers to identify, recover and analyse regions of chromatin that interact with chromatin-associated RNAs such as long non-coding RNA (lncRNA).
The new kits use the ChIRP method (Chromatin Isolation by RNA Purification) to isolate chromatin complexes using RNA as the target, allowing researchers to pinpoint specific sites of genomic interaction for chromatin-associated RNAs.
The kits simplify the ChIRP method by providing all necessary buffers, enzymes and reagents in one validated kit, as well as a negative control probe set and detailed protocol with capture probe design guidelines.
In addition, first-time users can opt for the EZ-Magna ChIRP kit, which includes a positive control capture probe set and detection primers that make it easier to validate an experiment’s success.
The ChIRP method was first described by researchers at Stanford University in 2011.
It offered significant potential for lncRNA studies, but the protocol was complex, requiring many different reagents sourced from different providers.
The procedure also limited use to researchers with strong expertise in the area. The all-in-one Magna ChIRP RNA Interactome Kits are designed to simplify the process and make it more accessible, Merck Millipore says.
“Noncoding RNA has become an increasingly prominent area of study in recent years, after researchers discovered that DNA sequence alone does not determine a cell’s genetic fate,” said Patrick Schneider, head of bioscience, Merck Millipore.
“A significant amount of research is now being conducted to understand how chromatin-associated RNAs influence gene expression and epigenetic regulation. Magna ChIRP RNA Interactome Kits make the ChIRP method accessible to all researchers, offering a simplified way of studying the interactions of chromatin-associated RNAs.”
The kits guide researchers through a process in which they cross-link and lyse cells, sonicate chromatin and hybridise biotinylated capture oligos, which bind to the complementary RNA sequence.
Then, Merck Millipore’s PureProteome Streptavidin magnetic beads, which are included in the kits, are added to allow robust pull down of any chromatin binding to the target RNA.
After the beads are washed, the DNA, RNA, and protein components can be isolated for further analysis.
The protocol eliminates non-specific signals by utilising split pools of capture probes (even/odd) to allow unambiguous identification of specific interactions.
