Abstract: This invention relates to a method for identification of samples collected as physical evidence for forensic analysis. The identification is based upon an analysis of DNA length polymorphisms generated by the action of restriction endonucleases.

Abstract: Polynucleotide sequences and cloned DNA fragments useful for visualizing DNA polymorphism and other genetic analyses are disclosed herein. Specifically, polynucleotide probes and methods are employed to identify Variable Tandem Repeat (VTR) polymorphisms useful in paternity determination, forensics testing, disease diagnostics, cell line identification, ro chimerism/mosaicism determination as in distinguishing zygosity or following transplantation.

Abstract: A method for obtaining polynucleotide sequences which are useful for detecting Variable Tandem Repeat polymorphism at multiple genetic loci and other genetic analyses under high stringency conditions (hence, with high specificity) is herein disclosed. Also disclosed are polynucleotide sequences and other compositions useful for DNA polymorphism and other genetic analyses.

Abstract: Polynucleotide sequences and other compositions useful for DNA polymorphism and other genetic analyses are disclosed herein. Also disclosed is a method for obtaining Variable Tandem Repeat polymorphism at a single genetic locus as well as other genetic analyses.

Abstract: This invention relates to carbodiimide compounds of the formula:Z--L--W--N.dbd.C.dbd.N--R.sub.1wherein Z is a signalling moiety or a protecting group; L is a divalent linking group; W is an alkylene group having up to 24 carbon atoms which can be substituted or interrupted by a water solubility enhancing group or cleavable S--S group; and R.sub.1 is an alkyl group having up to 18 carbon atoms. These compounds are useful in the nonradioactive labelling of nucleic acid probes, and methods employing same.

Abstract: In an apparatus for purifying and concentrating DNA, from a crude mixture containing DNA, a unitary collection cup for collecting the DNA from a lysate sample is provided; also, a retainer member for retaining a gel matrix. Both the collection cup and the gel matrix, which is disposed above the collection cup, are adapted to be engaged with a lysate container. The container functions to receive the lysate sample, which sample typically is derived from human whole blood; rotation of the lysate sample container produces opening and closing of a pathway defined by slotted passages in the collection cup, thereby selectively controlling the flow of electrophoresis buffer solution through the interior of the collection cup at appropriate times.

Abstract: A method for distinguishing fragments of DNA which contain single base mismatches from their perfectly paired homologues is disclosed. Single stranded regions within a duplex fragment are modified with carbodiimide, which reacts with unpaired guanine (G) and thymine (T) residues in DNA. Linear duplex DNA molecules do not react, while DNA molecules with single base mismatches react quantitatively with carbodiimide. Following reaction with carbodiimide, the DNA molecules are fractionated on high percentage polyacrylamide gels such that modified and unmodified fragments can be clearly distinguished. Application of this technique in order to located and purify DNA sequence differences responsible for phenotype variation and inherited disease is disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of detecting nucleic acid molecules employing cRNA probes in a pre-electrophoretic hybridization procedure. In addition to detecting the presence of nucleic acids an additional embodiment of the invention permits a determination of the size of said nucleic acids to be made.