Alternative labeling techniques for automated fluorescence based analysis of PCR products.

We present here convenient and simple methods that utilize two new fluorescent tags, TOTO-1 and fluorescein-12-dUTP, in conjunction with analysis of PCR products on automated, fluorescence-based electrophoretic instruments. These methods should prove valuable in those applications wherein the effort or expense of covalently attaching a fluorescent tag onto one or both of the PCR primers is not justified. Advantages and disadvantages of the new labeling methods are then reviewed.