Abstract: A luminometer comprising a tray for receiving an array of sample wells, a photodetector assembly, and device for relatively moving the tray and photodetector assembly in one direction to align the sample wells received by the tray in a predetermined sequence with the photodetector assembly. The photodetector assembly of the luminometer includes a stage, a photodetection head having a detection aperture permitting passage of light therethrough, a device for mounting the photodetection head to the stage that permits movement of the head in a direction substantially normal to the direction of relative tray and photodetector assembly movement, and a device for biasing the photodetection head toward a selected sample well so that the detection aperture is substantially isolated from light emitted from adjacent wells. Internal and external photodetector calibration systems and a sample heater are also contemplated.

Abstract: A reversible, deformable camera carrying case is disclosed wherein the latch for closing the case is formed by two flaps that wrap around the lenspiece. This case is especially useful for holding a camera having a longer lens. A clipping device attached to the case to ensure the camera is not separated from the case is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention describes an assay device and assembly for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample. Each assay device in the assembly includes structure defining a well, a ligand-coated particle, and a flexible particle retaining structure for holding the particle in a captured position within the well.

Abstract: Novel methods for assaying a nucleic acid analyte are provided, which employ polynucleotides having oligonucleotide sequences substantially homologous to a sequence of interest in the analyte, where the presence or absence of hybridization at a predetermined stringency provides for the release of a label from a support. Particularly, various techniques are employed for binding a label to a support, whereupon cleavage of either a single or double strand, a label may be released from a support, where the release of the label can be detected as indicative of the presence of a particular oligonucleotide sequence in a sample. The method finds use in diagnosis of disease, genetic monitoring, and analysis of nucleic acid mixtures.

Abstract: Two new isolates of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), J1 and J7, are disclosed. These new isolates comprise nucleotide and amino acid sequences which are distinct from the prototype HCV isolate, HCV1. Thus, J1 and J7 provide new polynucleotides and polypeptides for use, inter alia, in diagnostics, recombinant protein production and vaccine development.

Abstract: The protease necessary for polyprotein processing in Hepatitis C virus is identified, cloned, and expressed. Proteases, truncated protease, and altered proteases are disclosed which are useful for cleavage of specific polypeptides, and for assay and design of antiviral agents specific for HCV.

Abstract: Linear or branched oligonucleotide multimers useful as amplifiers in biochemical assays which comprise (1) at least one first single-stranded oligonucleotide unit that is complementary to a single-stranded oligonucleotide sequence of interest, and (2) a multiplicity of second single-stranded oligonucleotide units that are complementary to a single-stranded labeled oligonucleotide. Amplified sandwich nucleic acid hybridizations and immunoassays using the multimers are exemplified.

Abstract: Novel phosphorylating reagents are provided which are useful in DNA synthesis and purification procedures. The reagents are substituted phosphines which are particularly useful in the phosphorylation of nucleoside and solid supported oligonucleotides at the 5'-hydroxyl position. Phosphorylation using these reagents is easily and accurately monitored colorimetrically.

Abstract: A virion expression system for a desired protein packaged in an envelope derived from a retrovirus useful in administering proteins which cross cell membranes in order to serve their function. Preferred virions are those that carry an RNA sequence that encodes cytokines or lymphokines, and includes IL-2, multiple drug resistance protein, and TNF. Particularly disclosed is a DNA construct in which a gene encoding tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is directly linked to DNA encoding a human .gamma.-interferon signal peptide.

Abstract: The present invention is a process for preparing an activated ester of polyethylene glycol or a polyoxyethylated polyol. After the activated ester is prepared, it can be reacted with a protein to form a polymer/protein conjugate. Conjugation with a polymer can reduce the protein's immunogenicity, increase its solubility, and increase its circulating in vivo half-life. Preferred proteins are IL-2, CSFs, and interferons.

Abstract: The present invention provides recombinant polynucleotides which encode glucose oxidase (GO). It also provides recombinant expression systems which produce, and when desired, secrete active GO and GO analogs into the extracellular medium.

Abstract: Novel photolabile photochemical reagents are disclosed. The reagents are useful in a variety of biochemical and chemical contexts, including nucleic hybridization assays and chemical phosphorylation of hydroxyl-containing compounds. The reagents are particularly useful for introducing cleavable sites into oligonucleotide or polynucleotide chains, i.e., sites which are cleavable upon photolysis. The reagents are also useful in both 5'- and 3'-phosphorylation of oligonucleotide or polynucleotide chains.

Abstract: Oligomers and polymers are prepared substantially free of error sequences by sequentially adding monomers, which are terminally blocked and have active functionalities protected, to a growing chain bound to a support through a selectively cleavable linkage. After each addition, unblocked terminal groups are capped. At the completion of monomer addition, enzymatic hydrolysis interfering protecting groups are removed along with the capping group and failure sequences enzymatically degraded. The terminal blocking group may then be removed. The completed oligomer or polymer may be cleaved from the support prior or subsequent to enzymatic degradation but after completion of the sequence.

Abstract: A reversible, deformable camera carrying case is disclosed wherein the latch for closing the case is inherent in the case material in the form of an aperture. A clipping device attached to the case to ensure the camera is not separated from the case is also disclosed.