Abstract: An oligonucleotide, labeled with a molecular energy transfer trio and containing two sequences capable of hairpin formation, is used in the detection of two targets by irradiation with a single wavelength of light. One of the two sequences contains an energy donor and a first energy acceptor, and the other sequence contains a second energy acceptor. The donor is in close proximity to the second acceptor only if the hairpin is formed, while the donor is always in close proximity to first acceptor. A sample is assayed, using this oligonucleotide in conjunction with another oligonucleotide which contains the donor fluorophore and the quencher, arranged as described above, but which lacks the acceptor fluorophore. The present oligonucleotide and the other oligonucleotide are specific to first and second targets, respectively.

Abstract: A method and composition for quenching formaldehyde fixation of cell and tissue specimens. The composition includes a formaldehyde-reactive agent. The formaldehyde-reactive agent reacts with the formaldehyde to quench the fixation of the cell or tissue specimen. The method involves contacting a formaldehyde fixative solution with the composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides labeled nucleic acid amplification oligonucleotides, which can be linear or hairpin primers or blocking oligonucleotides. The oligonucleotides of the invention are labeled with donor and/or acceptor moieties of molecular energy transfer pairs. The moieties can be fluorophores, such that fluorescent energy emitted by the donor is absorbed by the acceptor. The acceptor may be a fluorophore that fluoresces at a wavelength different from the donor moiety, or it may be a quencher. The oligonucleotides of the invention are configured so that a donor moiety and an acceptor moiety are incorporated into the amplification product. The invention also provides methods and kits for directly detecting amplification products employing the nucleic acid amplification primers. When labeled linear primers are used, treatment with exonuclease or by using specific temperature eliminates the need for separation of unincorporated primers.

Abstract: The present invention provides labeled nucleic acid amplification oligonucleotides, which can be linear or hairpin primers or blocking oligonucleotides. The oligonucleotides of the invention are labeled with donor and/or acceptor moieties of molecular energy transfer pairs. The moieties can be fluorophores, such that fluorescent energy emitted by the donor is absorbed by the acceptor. The acceptor may be a fluorophore that fluoresces at a wavelength different from the donor moiety, or it may be a quencher. The oligonucleotides of the invention are configured so that a donor moiety and an acceptor moiety are incorporated into the amplification product. The invention also provides methods and kits for directly detecting amplification products employing the nucleic acid amplification primers. When labeled linear primers are used, treatment with exonuclease or by using specific temperature eliminates the need for separation of unincorporated primers.

Abstract: A method and composition for quenching formaldehyde fixation of cell and tissue specimens. The composition includes a formaldehyde-reactive agent. The formaldehyde-reactive agent reacts with the formaldehyde to quench the fixation of the cell or tissue specimen. The method involves contacting a formaldehyde fixative solution with the composition.