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. 1996 May 28;93(11):5395–5400. doi: 10.1073/pnas.93.11.5395

Extremely sensitive, background-free gene detection using binary probes and beta replicase.

S Tyagi 1, U Landegren 1, M Tazi 1, P M Lizardi 1, F R Kramer 1
PMCID: PMC39257  PMID: 8643586

Abstract

We have developed a specific and sensitive nucleic acid amplification assay that is suitable for routine gene detection. The assay is based on a novel molecular genetic strategy in which two different RNA probes are hybridized to adjacent positions on a target nucleic acid and then ligated to form an amplifiable reporter RNA. The reporter RNA is then replicated up to a hundred billion-fold in a 30-min isothermal reaction that signals the presence of the target. The assay can detect fewer than 100 nucleic acid molecules; it provides quantitative results over a wide range of target concentrations and it employs a universal format that can detect any infectious agent.

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Selected References

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