Method for Solid-Phase Amplification of DNA Using Multiarrays

Inventors: G. Rovera and S. Mukhopadhyay

Tech ID: RG98001

Description: Amplification of DNA is a common first step in nucleic acid diagnostics, particularly when testing for the presence or absence of an organism or a given nucleic acid sequence in a sample. For simplicity and sensitivity, DNA amplification assays have been developed wherein either the nucleic acid template or the primer is attached to a solid phase. These assays are particularly suitable for screening multiple samples in an automated system.

Wistar researchers have developed an improved assay for detecting the presence of a given test DNA in a sample, wherein the 5¹ and 3¹ primers for the test DNA are irreversibly bound to a solid phase and the DNA in the sample is reversibly bound to the solid phase. When these components are incubated under conditions that promote nucleic acid amplification, no signal is detectable unless the sample contains the test DNA. This assay may be useful for high throughput testing for pathogens (e.g. microorganisms or DNA viruses) or for detecting mutations in test samples, e.g. in multiarray systems.

Key Words: Screening, diagnostic, assay, screen, DNA probe, PCR, HTS, multiarray

Applications and Advantages: This assay system has the potential for greater sensitivity than other solid phase DNA assays.

Intellectual Property Status: U. S. Patent No. 6,221,635, issued April 24, 2001

Licensing Opportunity: This patent is available for licensing. Either exclusive or non-exclusive licenses will be considered.

Contact:

Meryle J. Melnicoff
Director, Business Development
The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 898-0049
Fax: (215) 573-2456
melnicoff@wistar.org

Last Updated:Feb-01