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).
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Publication number: 20100210472Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2009Publication date: August 19, 2010Applicant: LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Stephen A. EMPEDOCLES, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
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Patent number: 7559481Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Life Technologies CorporationInventors: Joseph A. Treadway, Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
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Patent number: 7129048Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 17, 2003Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: Invitrogen CorporationInventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
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Patent number: 7079241Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Invitrogen Corp.Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
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Patent number: 6838243Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 30, 2001Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Jennifer H. Lai, Vincent E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson
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Publication number: 20040197816Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Applicant: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
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Publication number: 20040178338Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2004Publication date: September 16, 2004Applicant: QUANTUM DOT CORPORATION, A California CorporationInventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Joseph A. Treadway, Andrew R. Watson
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Publication number: 20040171039Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Applicant: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
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Patent number: 6759235Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
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Patent number: 6734420Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Joseph A. Treadway, Andrew R. Watson
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Patent number: 6653080Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 22, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
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Publication number: 20030165951Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2002Publication date: September 4, 2003Applicant: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
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Publication number: 20030099940Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2001Publication date: May 29, 2003Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
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Patent number: 6500622Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 22, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jr., Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
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Publication number: 20020115082Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Vince Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
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Publication number: 20020090650Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2001Publication date: July 11, 2002Applicant: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Jian Jin
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Publication number: 20020039732Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: April 4, 2002Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Wong
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Publication number: 20020034747Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: March 21, 2002Inventors: Marcel P. Bruchez, Jennifer H. Lai, Vince E. Phillips, Andrew R. Watson, Edith Y. Wong
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Publication number: 20020031783Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Stephen A. Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson
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Publication number: 20020028457Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2001Publication date: March 7, 2002Applicant: Quantum Dot CorporationInventors: Stephen Alexander Empedocles, Andrew R. Watson, Vince Phillips, Edith Wong