[Comparison of DNA Extraction Methods for Processed Foods Containing Soybean or Maize].

Processed foods containing soybean or maize are subject to labeling regulations pertinent to genetically modified (GM) foods in Japan. To confirm the reliability of the labeling procedure of GM foods, the Japanese standard analytical methods (standard methods) using real-time PCR technique have been established. Although certain DNA extraction protocols are stipulated as standard in these methods, the use of other protocols confirmed to be equivalent to the existing ones was permitted.

Acceleration of the Deamination of Cytosine through Photo-Crosslinking.

Herein, we report the major factor for deamination reaction rate acceleration, i.e., hydrophilicity, by using various 5-substituted target cytosines and by carrying out deamination at high temperatures.

Application of Mass Spectrometry for Determining the Geographic Production Area of Wagyu Beef.

Japanese Black cattle (Japanese Wagyu) beef is attracting attention for its aroma and marbling, and its handling is increasing worldwide. Here, we focused on the origin discrimination of Wagyu beef and analyzed the nutritional components of Japanese Wagyu (produced in multiple prefectures of Japan), Hybrid Wagyu (a cross between Angus and Wagyu cattle born in Australia and transported to Japan), and Australian Wagyu beef using mass spectrometry (MS). Triple-quadrupole liquid chromatography-MS was used to clarify the molecular species of lipids in Wagyu beef.

Multiplexed detection of nucleic acids using F NMR chemical shift changes based on DNA photo-cross-linking of 3-vinylcarbazole derivatives.

The detection methodology for nucleic acids is a useful tool for the analysis of biological systems and diagnosis of diseases. We demonstrated the feasibility of the detection of any nucleic acids based on large chemical shifts via ultrafast DNA photo-cross-linking and the effects of substitution by 3-vinylcarbazole derivatives. These chemical shifts enable the sequence-specific detection of any strand using hybridization chain reaction.

Effect of substitution of photo-cross-linker in photochemical cytosine to uracil transition in DNA.

Genome editing is an important technique for protein engineering, treatment of genetic disorders, and production of non-native proteins. A shortcoming of current enzymatic and chemical methods for genome editing is their limited applicability for in vivo studies. In addition, non-enzymatic methods, such as photochemical DNA editing using 3-cyanovinylcarbazole (K), require high temperatures to affect cytosine to uracil transformations.