Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of a nucleic acid template (110) in a sample includes the steps of combining the sample in a reaction vessel with a first primer (112F) and a second primer (112R) having a first section (114), a second section (118) and a spacer (116). The method also includes one or more of the steps of extending the first section (114) with additional nucleotides, binding the first primer (112F) to the extended first section, extending the first primer (112F) with additional nucleotides and terminating extension of the first primer (112F) with the spacer (116). The first section (114) includes a plurality of nucleotides that bind with a portion of the nucleic acid template (110). The second section (118) is spaced-apart from the first section (114) and includes a plurality of nucleotides that do not bind with the nucleic acid template (110). The spacer (116) couples the first section (114) to the second section (118). The invention is also directed toward the second primer (112R).

Abstract: Methods for amplification and capture of nucleic acid sequences include annealing a forward primer to a DNA or RNA template in a first reaction vessel including fewer than four different dNTPs; forming an extended primer that terminates when an omitted dNTP is required for further extension; releasing the extended primer; exponentially amplifying the extended primer in a second reaction vessel that includes a reverse primer, four different dNTPs and a capture probe that includes n oligonucleotides having fewer than n locking nucleic acids; and concurrently capturing one of the extended primers with the capture probe while amplifying the extended primer. The steps of annealing, extending and releasing can occur at a first reaction temperature that is substantially isothermal and in the absence of a helicase. The steps of exponentially amplifying and capturing can occur at a second reaction temperature that is substantially isothermal.