Abstract: Methods and kits for detecting a target nucleic acid in a sample are described. In some embodiments, the sample to be analyzed includes a primer which hybridizes to at least a portion of the target nucleic acid, a probe having a first region which hybridizes to at least a portion of the target nucleic acid and a second region having a detectable label, a polymerase which extends the hybridized primer and an enzyme comprising nuclease activity that can cleave the hybridized hybridization probe to thereby release a labeled probe fragment. In some embodiments, the sample can then be contacted with a solid support comprising surface bound capture probes which can hybridize to the labeled probe fragment(s). These capture probes more readily bind to the probe fragment(s) than to the intact hybridization probe. The label can then be detected on the support surface. In this manner, improved discrimination between the probe fragments and the intact hybridization probes can be achieved.

Abstract: System and methods for detecting analytes such as pathogenic cells are described. The methods allow for the direct measurement of analytes such as pathogenic organisms without the need for sample preparation and/or PCR. The devices can be used individually as point-of-use sensors for airborne pathogens and other pathogenic organisms in foods and agriculture products.

Abstract: Methods and kits for detecting a target nucleic acid in a sample are described. In some embodiments, the sample to be analyzed includes a primer which hybridizes to at least a portion of the target nucleic acid, a probe having a first region which hybridizes to at least a portion of the target nucleic acid and a second region having a detectable label, a polymerase which extends the hybridized primer and an enzyme comprising nuclease activity that can cleave the hybridized hybridization probe to thereby release a labeled probe fragment. In some embodiments, the sample can then be contacted with a solid support comprising surface bound capture probes which can hybridize to the labeled probe fragment(s). These capture probes more readily bind to the probe fragment(s) than to the intact hybridization probe. The label can then be detected on the support surface. In this manner, improved discrimination between the probe fragments and the intact hybridization probes can be achieved.

Abstract: Disclosed, for example, are methods for detecting at least one target polynucleotide comprising cleaving a flap from a polynucleotide probe that is hybridized to a complementary target polynucleotide, and hybridizing the cleaved flap to a complementary capture probe immobilized on a surface, wherein said cleaving and/or hybridizing occurs in the presence of a single strand binding protein that is capable of binding single-stranded DNA, but that can bind neither the flap nor the capture probe. The cleaved flap and the complementary capture probe may each comprise PNA, RNA, LNA, L-DNA or other modified nucleotides or chimeras thereof that do not significantly bind to the single strand binding protein.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices that incorporate a porous polymer electrode assemblies, including microfluidic device useful for detection of nucleic acids, as well as methods of using the microfluidic devices.

Abstract: Porous polymer electrode assemblies are useful in the detection or quantification of a variety of analytes. By preparing a porous monolith, and applying a conductive polymer to the monolith, a porous matrix is prepared that combines favorable conductive properties, by virtue of the presence of the conductive polymer, with the porous character of the underlying monolith. The resulting porous electrode can be used for qualitative or quantitative analysis, and the capture and/or release of selected charged materials, such as nucleic acids. The pores of the electrode matrix may also be filled with nonconductive material, yielding electrodes having a plurality of discrete conductive surfaces.

Abstract: System and methods for detecting analytes such as pathogenic cells are described. The methods allow for the direct measurement of analytes such as pathogenic organisms without the need for sample preparation and/or PCR. The devices can be used individually as point-of-use sensors for airborne pathogens and other pathogenic organisms in foods and agriculture products.