Abstract: The invention features reagents, methods and kits for the purification of RNA, or DNA, or both, from a sample.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for isolating substantially pure and undegraded DNA from biological material via a solid support. The methods may use a DNA lysing solution that comprises a surfactant, a DNA-complexing salt (e.g., a lithium salt), and a buffer. Alternatively, the methods may use a solid support pre-treated with the DNA lysing solution.

Abstract: The invention provides one-component and two-component DNA polymerases, as well as kits comprising the same, and methods of using the same for nucleic amplification and nucleic acid sequencing.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for enhanced specificity and sensitivity of amplification reaction mixtures. Compositions in accordance with the present invention provide for reduced formation of primer-aggregates during amplification reactions. Reaction mixes include dNTPs, where a portion of the dNTPs has been replaced with an unconventional nucleotide, e.g., dUTP. Unconventional nucleotide concentrations are typically between 10% to 50% of the concentration of one of the standard dNTP. In some compositions the unconventional nucleotide is dUTP which replaces from about 10% to about 50% of the dTTP in the dNTP mix.

Abstract: Reagents, methods and kits for the purification of RNA from biological materials are provided.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for gently lysing and solubilizing cells. Methods and compositions are further provided for quickly purifying high quality low molecular weight nucleic acid from host cells. Target cells are treated with a pre-chilled lysis solution having a zwitterionic detergent, for example n-Dodecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-1-propanesulfonate, and a brief room-temperature incubation. Where nucleic acid purification is required, the lysis solution-treated cells are contacted with a nucleic acid capture matrix having an average pore size of at least about 1 ?m.

Abstract: Eluting reagents and methods for isolating DNA from biological materials are provided.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for purifying and isolating nucleic acid. The system uses one or more automated stations to perform steps of the method, including loading a sample onto a solid support in a processing container, purifying the sample, and isolating nucleic acid from the sample. A pump or vacuum may be used in the apparatus of the present invention for supplying fluids to the sample. A pump, vacuum or centrifuge may be used to separate impurities from the sample or to separate nucleic acid from the solid support. Exemplary solid supports and sample processing containers are disclosed.

Abstract: Reagents, methods and kits for the purification of RNA from biological materials are provided.

Abstract: Reagents, methods and kits for the purification of DNA from biological materials are provided.

Abstract: Processes for isolating, amplifying, and characterizing DNA from biological materials are provided. DNA is isolated by contacting a biological material on a solid support which is preferably pre-treated with a lysing reagent. The isolation process is simple and efficient and provides a source of purified DNA without the use of harmful organic solvents such as urea and guanidine-based solvents. The purified DNA and remaining fractions of biological material may be characterized or amplified as necessary.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for gently lysing and solubilizing cells. Methods and compositions are further provided for quickly purifying high quality low molecular weight nucleic acid from host cells. Target cells are treated with a pre-chilled lysis solution having a zwitterionic detergent, for example n-Dodecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonio-1-propanesulfonate, and a brief room-temperature incubation. Where nucleic acid purification is required, the lysis solution-treated cells are contacted with a nucleic acid capture matrix having an average pore size of at least about 1 ?m.

Abstract: The invention provides Pol III ? mutants, and modified Pol III replicases comprising the same, and methods of using modified Pol III replicases for a variety of nucleic acid replication reactions.

Abstract: A method for isolating plasmids from suspended bacterial or yeast cells using a filter matrix, at least one lysing substance being added to the suspension and predamaging or completely lysing the predominant portion of the suspended cells, at least one conformation-altering substance being added to the suspension to alter the conformation of the plasmids to be isolated so as to promote retention of the cell components in or at the filter matrix. The suspension is thereupon moved through the filter matrix and the cells if not yet lysed then being lysed to completion upon contact with the filter matrix and the released plasmids being retained in or at the filter matrix.

Abstract: A mixing and pouring apparatus for computer controlled processing of mixing and pouring operations includes a rotatable arm capable of holding vessels therein, the arm rotatable at programmable speeds and time lengths to perform automated moving and pouring processes. The present invention further provides a cap and vessel positioning system that securely locks a vessel in place and realigns the cap in essentially the identical position in relation to the vessel every time the vessel is capped. In one embodiment, both the cap and vessel have flanges that are aligned when the cap is properly secured to the vessel.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for amplifying RNA from an RNA template. Methods and compositions are further provided for detecting an RNA in an RNA containing sample. Compositions used for the amplification of RNA from RNA include a RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase, a RNA helicase, and an energy source. Illustrative RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase enzymes are derived from the tomato or tobacco plant, while illustrative RNA helicase enzymes include the eIF4A and eIF4B proteins.