Abstract: A method for the preparation of a coded chemical library, which method comprises synthesising the chemical library on a plurality of synthesis particles and writing code on the synthesis particles using high-energy radiation during library synthesis, so as to provide the chemical library on a plurality of coded synthesis particles, and wherein the identity of library compounds associated with a synthesis particle is established by reference to its code.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) substrate having donor and acceptor species on opposite sides of a proteolytic cleavage site and wherein the donor and/or acceptor species are attached via the side chain(s) of amino acid(s) therein. The method comprises contacting a reactive donor or acceptor species with a polypeptide substrate having the side chain(s) of amino acid(s) therein adapted for reaction with the reactive species and then contacting the substrate so obtained with a corresponding reactive donor or acceptor species. Novel FRET substrates so prepared and their use in assays to identify modulators of protease activity.

Abstract: A method for the detection of a compound which modulates binding of a ligand to a biological receptor, which method comprises contacting the ligand, biological receptor and test compound at a locus on a solid phase matrix, the matrix allowing movement of fluids therein by capillary action, under conditions which permit binding of the ligand to the biological receptor and partition of any unbound ligand on the solid phase matrix, and detecting any modulation of binding by the test compound by reference to any such partition.

Abstract: Assay method for the detection of nucleic acid sequences in homogeneous solution. The method comprises the use of fluorescence polarisation to detect hybridisation of a fluorescent nucleic acid probe or to detect fluorescent primer extension products. Assay kits for use in the above methods.

Abstract: A support carrying a homocyclic or heterocyclic ring containing a first and second carbon atom wherein: (i) the first carbon atom is substituted by a nucleophilic group or a group convertible to a nucleophilic group on treatment with base; (ii) the second carbon atom is substituted by a hydroxy group, a hydroxy group protected by an acid labile protecting group, or a phosphate group substituted by an oligonucleotide; and (iii) the first and second carbon atoms are directly connected by a covalent bond; which is suitable for use in oligonucleotide synthesis. Methods for its preparation and use, and novel compounds for attachment to the support are described.

Abstract: A method for the detection of a nucleic acid analyte by complementary probe hybridisation and formation of a chelated lanthanide complex which, upon irradiation by light, results in a characteristic delayed luminescence emission.

Abstract: Oligonucleotide signalling conjugates including a nucleic acid sequence, an amino-group containing linker group, a sulphur (thio) containing group and a non-isotopic label or marker and thiolated oligonucleotide derivative intermediates reactive with activated non-isotopic label or marker are described. The non-isotopic label is especially an enzyme such as alkaline phosphatase or horse radish peroxidase. The conjugates have application in the detection or characterisation of nucleic acid sequences and in particular in genetic characterisation.

Abstract: A support carrying a homocyclic or heterocyclic ring containing a first and second carbon atom wherein: (i) the first carbon atom is substituted by a nucleophilic group or a group convertible to a nucleophilic group on treatment with base; (ii) the second carbon atom is substituted by a hydroxy group, a hydroxy group protected by an acid labile protecting group, or a phosphate group substituted by an oligonucleotide; and (iii) the first and second carbon atoms are directly connected by a covalent bond; which is suitable for use in oligonucleotide synthesis. Methods for its preparation and use, and novel compounds for attachment to the support are described.