Patents by Inventor Andrew R. Watson

Andrew R. Watson has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20100210472
    Abstract: Devices, systems, kits, and methods for detecting and/or identifying a plurality of spectrally labeled bodies well-suited for performing multiplexed assays. By spectrally labeling the beads with materials which generate identifiable spectra, a plurality of beads may be identified within the fluid. Reading of the beads is facilitated by restraining the beads in arrays, and/or using a focused laser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephen A. EMPEDOCLES, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
  • Patent number: 7559481
    Abstract: Devices, systems, methods, and compositions of matter can track and/or identify a library of elements, particularly for use with fluids, particulates, cells, and the like. Signals from one or more semiconductor nanocrystals may be combined to define spectral codes. Separation of signal wavelengths within dedicated wavelength ranges or windows facilitates differentiation of spectral codes, while calibration signals within the spectral codes can avoid ambiguity. Modeling based on prior testing can help derive libraries of acceptable codes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph A. Treadway, Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
  • Patent number: 7129048
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Invitrogen Corporation
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
  • Patent number: 7079241
    Abstract: Devices, systems, kits, and methods for detecting and/or identifying a plurality of spectrally labeled bodies well-suited for performing multiplexed assays. By spectrally labeling the beads with materials which generate identifiable spectra, a plurality of beads may be identified within the fluid. Reading of the beads is facilitated by restraining the beads in arrays, and/or using a focused laser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Invitrogen Corp.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
  • Patent number: 6838243
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for an amplification product from a target polynucleotide are provided. An amplification reaction is used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay the sample for the target polynucleotide. A sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide is contacted with first and second primers to amplify the target polynucleotide; the first primer comprises a tag sequence, the complement of which is formed on the opposite strand during amplification and is referred to as a capture sequence. That opposite strand is referred to as a second primer extension product or an amplification product, and comprises a label. A capture probe is provided that is conjugated to a substrate and can bind to the capture sequence to form an amplification product detection complex.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Jennifer H. Lai, Vincent E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson
  • Publication number: 20040197816
    Abstract: Improved devices, systems, and methods for sensing and/or identifying signals from within a signal detection region are well-suited for identification of spectral codes. Large numbers of independently identifiable spectral codes can be generated by quite small bodies, and a plurality of such bodies or probes may be present within a detection region. Simultaneously imaging of identifiable spectra from throughout the detection region allows the probes to be identified. As the identifiable spectra can be treated as being generated from a point source within a much larger detection field, a prism, diffractive grading, holographic transmissive grading, or the like can spectrally disperse the images of the labels across a sensor surface. A CCD can identify the relative wavelengths of signals making up the spectra. Absolute signal wavelengths may be identified by determining positions of the labels, by an internal wavelength reference within the spectra, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
  • Publication number: 20040178338
    Abstract: Devices, systems, methods, and compositions of matter can track and/or identify a library of elements, particularly for use with fluids, particulates, cells, and the like. Signals from one or more semiconductor nanocrystals may be combined to define spectral codes. Separation of signal wavelengths within dedicated wavelength ranges or windows facilitates differentiation of spectral codes, while calibration signals within the spectral codes can avoid ambiguity. Modeling based on prior testing can help derive libraries of acceptable codes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: QUANTUM DOT CORPORATION, A California Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Joseph A. Treadway, Andrew R. Watson
  • Publication number: 20040171039
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
  • Patent number: 6759235
    Abstract: Improved devices, systems, and methods for sensing and/or identifying signals from within a signal detection region are well-suited for identification of spectral codes. Large numbers of independently identifiable spectral codes can be generated by quite small bodies, and a plurality of such bodies or probes may be present within a detection region. Simultaneously imaging of identifiable spectra from throughout the detection region allows the probes to be identified. As the identifiable spectra can be treated as being generated from a point source within a much larger detection field, a prism, diffractive grading, holographic transmissive grading, or the like can spectrally disperse the images of the labels across a sensor surface. A CCD can identify the relative wavelengths of signals making up the spectra. Absolute signal wavelengths may be identified by determining positions of the labels, by an internal wavelength reference within the spectra, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
  • Patent number: 6734420
    Abstract: Devices, systems, methods, and compositions of matter can track and/or identify a library of elements, particularly for use with fluids, particulates, cells, and the like. Signals from one or more semiconductor nanocrystals may be combined to define spectral codes. Separation of signal wavelengths within dedicated wavelength ranges or windows facilitates differentiation of spectral codes, while calibration signals within the spectral codes can avoid ambiguity. Modeling based on prior testing can help derive libraries of acceptable codes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Joseph A. Treadway, Andrew R. Watson
  • Patent number: 6653080
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
  • Publication number: 20030165951
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Applicant: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
  • Publication number: 20030099940
    Abstract: The present invention provides assays that allow for the detection of a single copy of a target of interest. The target species is either directly or indirectly labeled with a semiconductor nanocrytal, “quantum dot.” The bright and tunable fluorescence of the quantum dot is readily detected using methods described herein. Also provided are assays that are based on the colocalization of two or more differently colored quantum dots on a single target species, which provides superbly sensitive assays in which the decrease in assay sensitivity caused by non-specific binding of assay mixture components to the assay substrate is minimized. The assays are of use to detect target species including, but are not limited to, nucleic acids, polypeptides, small organic bioactive agents (e.g., drugs, agents of war, herbicides, pesticides, etc.) and organisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
  • Patent number: 6500622
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jr., Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
  • Publication number: 20020115082
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for an amplification product from a target polynucleotide are provided. An amplification reaction is used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay the sample for the target polynucleotide. A sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide is contacted with first and second primers to amplify the target polynucleotide; the first primer comprises a tag sequence, the complement of which is formed on the opposite strand during amplification and is referred to as a capture sequence. That opposite strand is referred to as a second primer extension product or an amplification product. A probe polynucleotide is provided that is a molecular beacon and can bind to the capture sequence to form an amplification product detection complex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
  • Publication number: 20020090650
    Abstract: Improved devices, systems, and methods for sensing and/or identifying signals from within a signal detection region are well-suited for identification of spectral codes. Large numbers of independently identifiable spectral codes can be generated by quite small bodies, and a plurality of such bodies or probes may be present within a detection region. Simultaneously imaging of identifiable spectra from throughout the detection region allows the probes to be identified. As the identifiable spectra can be treated as being generated from a point source within a much larger detection field, a prism, diffractive grading, holographic transmissive grading, or the like can spectrally disperse the images of the labels across a sensor surface. A CCD can identify the relative wavelengths of signals making up the spectra. Absolute signal wavelengths may be identified by determining positions of the labels, by an internal wavelength reference within the spectra, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Applicant: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
  • Publication number: 20020039732
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
  • Publication number: 20020034747
    Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for assaying a sample for a target polynucleotide and/or an amplification product therefrom are provided. The methods comprise contacting a sample suspected of containing the target polynucleotide with a polynucleotide that can bind specifically thereto; this polynucleotide is conjugated to a substrate, preferably an encoded bead conjugate. An amplification reaction can first be used to produce the amplification product from the target polynucleotide so that it can be used to indirectly assay for the target polynucleotide. An amplification product detection complex and method of forming the same are also provided. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of targets are present. Amplification product assay complexes and amplification product assay arrays are also provided, along with methods of forming the same. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
  • Publication number: 20020031783
    Abstract: Improved devices, systems, and methods for sensing and/or identifying signals from within a signal detection region are well-suited for identification of spectral codes. Large numbers of independently identifiable spectral codes can be generated by quite small bodies, and a plurality of such bodies or probes may be present within a detection region. Simultaneously imaging of identifiable spectra from throughout the detection region allows the probes to be identified. As the identifiable spectra can be treated as being generated from a point source within a much larger detection field, a prism, diffractive grading, holographic transmissive grading, or the like can spectrally disperse the images of the labels across a sensor surface. A CCD can identify the relative wavelengths of signals making up the spectra. Absolute signal wavelengths may be identified by determining positions of the labels, by an internal wavelength reference within the spectra, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
  • Publication number: 20020028457
    Abstract: The present invention provides assays that allow for the detection of a single copy of a target of interest. The target species is either directly or indirectly labeled with a semiconductor nanocrytal, “quantum dot.” The bright and tunable fluorescence of the quantum dot is readily detected using methods described herein. Also provided are assays that are based on the colocalization of two or more differently colored quantum dots on a single target species, which provides superbly sensitive assays in which the decrease in assay sensitivity caused by non-specific binding of assay mixture components to the assay substrate is minimized. The assays are of use to detect target species including, but are not limited to, nucleic acids, polypeptides, small organic bioactive agents (e.g., drugs, agents of war, herbicides, pesticides, etc.) and organisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Applicant: Quantum Dot Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Alexander Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Vince Phillips, Edith Wong