Detection System
First Claim
1. A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, the method comprising subjecting the sample to an amplification reaction and taking continuous electrochemical measurements on the sample in situ during the amplification reaction, wherein the amplification reaction is conducted in the presence of an oligonucleotide probe that is specific for a region of the target nucleic acid sequence and includes an electrochemical label, which allows binding of the probe to the target sequence to be electrochemically monitored wherein a change in electrochemical measurement indicates the presence of the target in the sample.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, by subjecting it to an amplification and taking continuous electrochemical measurements on it during the reaction. The method can be used to determine whet amplification reaction has taken place, to quantitate the amount of target in the sample or to determine sequence characteristics. disclosed is apparatus for use in the method, comprising (i) an amplification reaction vessel which comprises an electrochemic (ii) means for taking continuous electrochemical measurements on a sample contained in the vessel and (iii) tempertature coat measurement means, wherein the electrochemical cell comprises an element formed from an electrically conducting plastics such as a polymer loaded with an electrically conducting material. Further disclosed is a reaction vessel for use in the appar probe for use in the method and a kit for effecting the method.
18 Citations
25 Claims
- 1. A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, the method comprising subjecting the sample to an amplification reaction and taking continuous electrochemical measurements on the sample in situ during the amplification reaction, wherein the amplification reaction is conducted in the presence of an oligonucleotide probe that is specific for a region of the target nucleic acid sequence and includes an electrochemical label, which allows binding of the probe to the target sequence to be electrochemically monitored wherein a change in electrochemical measurement indicates the presence of the target in the sample.
-
13. (canceled)
-
20-22. -22. (canceled)
-
23. A probe for use in a method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, wherein the probe is specific for a region of the target nucleic acid sequence and includes an electrochemical label, which allows binding of the probe to the target sequence to be electrochemically monitored, and the probe is free in solution.
-
24. An apparatus for use in a method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence in a sample, the apparatus comprising (i) an amplification reaction vessel which comprises an electrochemical cell, (ii) means for taking continuous electrochemical measurements on a sample contained in the amplification reaction vessel and (iii) temperature control and measurement means, wherein the electrochemical cell comprises at least one element formed from an electrically conducting plastics material.
-
25-45. -45. (canceled)
Specification