Which two environments are involved in solid-support hybridization?

The correct answer highlights the combination of the liquid and solid phases, which is fundamental to the process of solid-support hybridization. In this technique, the solid support typically refers to a stationary phase, often a membrane or a microarray, onto which nucleic acids are attached. The liquid phase involves the hybridization solution, where target nucleic acids are present in a fluid state.

During hybridization, the complementary sequences of nucleic acids in the liquid phase interact with the sequences immobilized on the solid support. This ensures that the hybridization process is efficient and specific, as the proximity of the solid surface allows for better interaction between the target nucleic acids and the probes attached to the solid support.

In correct context, the other options do not align with the hybridization process. Gas and liquid phases do not play a role in solid-support hybridization, as hybridization requires a stable medium for the nucleic acids to interact, which is not provided in a gas phase. Likewise, solid and gas phases or liquid and air phases do not create the necessary environment where nucleic acids can effectively hybridize, as air or gas would not support the interactions needed for binding. These factors make the liquid and solid phases the essential components of solid-support hybridization