Rapid Sequence-Specific Detection of Nucleotide Sequences

Section: For Industry

Category(ies): Other

Reference #: DAMA422003

OTC Contact: Ruchika Nijhara Ph.D. (Directory Information | Send a Message)

Description

Researchers at Georgetown University have developed a sensitive method of identifying single- or double-stranded DNA sequences. The method involves the hybridization of a probe and target DNA to create a recognition site for a strand-specific endonuclease that cleaves the probe into two pieces leaving the target DNA intact. Laser-induced fluorescence coupled with capillary electrophoresis is then used to measure the probe cleavage products. The target DNA can then act as a template for fresh probe and the process of hybridization, cleavage and dissociation repeats.

Applications

Applications:

  • SNP analysis
  • Genotyping
  • Identifying any nucleotide sequence. For example, in identifying microorganism contamination or infection

Advantages:

  • No need to purify the DNA before amplification.
  • Reaction is rapid; full cleavage of probe occurs within one minute.
  • Method is amenable to automation.
  • Highly specific method- based on the complete complementarity between the probe and the target DNA.
  • The method can be multiplexed allowing the detection of multiple sequences (multiple genes in one organism or individual genes in multiple organisms).
  • The assay could also be used to identify RNA sequences.

Advantages

Stage of Development

Stage of Development: Studies done to demonstrate that the assay can be used to specifically detect the presence of Bacillus anthracis pX01 and pX02 plasmids, E-Coli genomic DNA and Bacillus subtilis genomic DNA

Inventors: Mark Danielsen, Eugene Davidson, and Kenneth L. Dretchen

Relevant Publications

Sequence specific detection of DNA using nicking endonuclease signal amplification (NESA); Danielsen M et al; Nucleic Acids Res. 2007;35(18):e117.

Patent Status

US Patent application # 11/884,366, entitled, “Sequence-Specific Detection Of Nucleotide Sequences” filed on August 15, 2007