Patents by Inventor Cassandra L. Smith
Cassandra L. Smith 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: 20130101506Abstract: Disclosed herein are aptamers that comprise a nucleic acid sequence that has a specific affinity for a target. These aptamers can be used as delivery vehicles to deliver specific agents to particular sites. Alternatively, targeted aptamers can also be used with detection techniques to determine the presence of absence of specific targets in heterogeneous backgrounds.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventor: Cassandra L. Smith
-
Publication number: 20100255558Abstract: The invention relates to supramolecular bioconjugates and to methods for assembling and utilizing supramolecular bioconjugates. Supramolecular bioconjugates comprise a plurality of first nucleic acids and a plurality of mediators wherein each mediator comprises a second nucleic acid complementary to a sequence within said plurality of first nucleic acids. To assemble a supramolecular bioconjugate, one or more sets of bioreactive agents are coupled to the plurality of mediators, forming a plurality of bioreactive complexes. The plurality of bioreactive complexes are hybridized to the plurality of first nucleic acids to form the supramolecular bioconjugate. Bioconjugates can be used to detect and isolate targets, to screen samples for targets such as antigens, to treat patients with multiple agents or to diagnose disorders in the form of a kit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2009Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: TRUSTEES OF BOSTON UNIVERSITYInventors: Christof M. Niemeyer, Charles R. Cantor, Takeshi Sano, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Publication number: 20100254901Abstract: Disclosed herein are aptamers that comprise a nucleic acid sequence that has a specific affinity for a target. These aptamers can be used as delivery vehicles to deliver specific agents to particular sites. Alternatively, targeted aptamers can also be used with detection techniques to determine the presence of absence of specific targets in heterogeneous backgrounds.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2006Publication date: October 7, 2010Inventor: Cassandra L. Smith
-
Patent number: 7569341Abstract: The invention relates to supramolecular bioconjugates and to methods for assembling and utilizing supramolecular bioconjugates. Supramolecular bioconjugates comprise a plurality of first nucleic acids and a plurality of mediators wherein each mediator comprises a second nucleic acid complementary to a sequence within said plurality of first nucleic acids. To assemble a supramolecular bioconjugate, one or more sets of bioreactive agents are coupled to the plurality of mediators, forming a plurality of bioreactive complexes The plurality of bioreactive complexes are hybridized to the plurality of first nucleic acids to form the supramolecular bioconjugate. Bioconjugates can be used to detect and isolate targets, to screen samples for targets such as antigens, to treat patients with multiple agents or to diagnose disorders in the form of a kit.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Christof M. Niemeyer, Charles R. Cantor, Takeshi Sano, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Patent number: 7319003Abstract: This invention is directed to methods and reagents useful for sequencing nucleic acid targets utilizing sequencing by hybridization technology comprising probes, arrays of probes and methods whereby sequence information is obtained rapidly and efficiently in discrete packages. That information can be used for the detection, identification, purification and complete or partial sequencing of a particular target nucleic acid. When coupled with a ligation step, these methods can be performed under a single set of hybridization conditions. The invention also relates to the replication of probe arrays and methods for making and replicating arrays of probes which are useful for the large scale manufacture of diagnostic aids used to screen biological samples for specific target sequences. Arrays created using PCR technology may comprise probes with 5?- and/or 3?-overhangs.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1998Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: The Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Charles R. Cantor, Marek Prezetakiewiczr, Cassandra L. Smith, Takeshi Sano
-
Patent number: 6991903Abstract: Methods for detecting and sequencing of target double-stranded nucleic acid molecules, nucleic acid probes and arrays of probes useful in these methods, and kits and systems that contain these probes are provided. The methods involve hybridizing the nucleic acids or nucleic acids which represent complementary or homologous sequences of the target to an array of nucleic acid probes. These probes include a single-stranded portion, an optional double-stranded portion and a variable sequence within the single-stranded portion. The molecular weights of the hybridized nucleic acids of the set can be determined by mass spectroscopy, and the sequence of the target determined from the molecular weights of the fragments.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2002Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignees: Sequenom, Inc., The Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Dong-Jing Fu, Charles R. Cantor, Hubert Köster, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Publication number: 20030118987Abstract: This invention is directed to methods and reagents useful for sequencing nucleic acid targets utilizing sequencing by hybridization technology comprising probes, arrays of probes and methods whereby sequence information is obtained rapidly and efficiently in discrete packages. That information can be used for the detection, identification, purification and complete or partial sequencing of a particular target nucleic acid. When coupled with a ligation step, these methods can be performed under a single set of hybridization conditions. The invention also relates to the replication of probe arrays and methods for making and replicating arrays of probes which are useful for the large scale manufacture of diagnostic aids used to screen biological samples for specific target sequences. Arrays created using PCR technology may comprise probes with 5′- and/or 3′-overhangs.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 1998Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: CHARLES R. CANTOR, MAREK PRZETAKIEWICZ, CASSANDRA L SMITH, TAKESHI SANO
-
Publication number: 20030118595Abstract: The invention relates to supramolecular bioconjugates and to methods for assembling and utilizing supramolecular bioconjuigates. Supramolecalar bioconjugates comprise a plurality of first nucleic acids and a plurality of mediators wherein each mediator comprises a second nucleic acid complementary to a sequence within said plurality of first nucleic acids. To assemble a supramolecalar bioconjugate, one or more sets of bioreactive agents are coupled to the plurality of mediators, forming a plurality of bioreactive complexes The plurality of bioreactive complexes are hybridized to the plurality of first nucleic acids to form the supramolecular bioconjugate. Bioconjugates can be used to detect and isolate targets, to screen samples for targets such as antigens, to treat patients with multiple agents or to diagnose disorders in the form of a kit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 1997Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: CHRISTOF M. NIEMEYER, CHARLES R. CANTOR, TAKESHI SANO, CASSANDRA L. SMITH
-
Publication number: 20030096258Abstract: Methods for detecting and sequencing of target double-stranded nucleic acid molecules, nucleic acid probes and arrays of probes useful in these methods, and kits and systems that contain these probes aer provided. The methods involve hybridizing the nucleic acids or nucleic acids which represent complementary or homologous sequences of the target to an array of nucleic acid probes. These probes include a single-stranded portion, an optional double-stranded portion and a variable sequence within the single-stranded portion. The molecular weights of the hybridized nucleic acids of the set can be determined by mass spectroscopy, and the sequence of the target determined from the molecular weights of the fragments.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2002Publication date: May 22, 2003Inventors: Dong-Jing Fu, Charles R. Cantor, Hubert Koster, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Patent number: 6436635Abstract: This invention relates to methods for detecting and sequencing of target double-stranded nucleic acid sequences, to nucleic acid probes and arrays of probes useful in these methods, and to kits and systems which contain these probes. Useful methods involve hybridizing the nucleic acids or nucleic acids which represent complementary or homologous sequences of the target to an array of nucleic acid probes. These probe comprise a single-stranded portion, an optional double-stranded portion and a variable sequence within the single-stranded portion. The molecular weights of the hybridized nucleic acids of the set can be determined by mass spectroscopy, and the sequence of the target determined from the molecular weights of the fragments. Nucleic acids whose sequences can be determined include nucleic acids in biological samples such as patient biopsies and environmental samples.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1996Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignees: Boston University, Sequenom, Inc.Inventors: Dong-Jing Fu, Charles R. Cantor, Hubert Köster, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Publication number: 20020022217Abstract: The coating of silicon surfaces is described, including but not limited to coating silicon surfaces with biomolecules such as biotin and avidin. Silicon surfaces are made with a monolayer of the protein streptavidin and these surfaces are then used as supports for reactions, including but not limited to nucleic acid hybridization.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 1998Publication date: February 21, 2002Inventors: CHANDRAN R. SABANAYAGAM, CHARLES R. CANTOR, CASSANDRA L. SMITH
-
Patent number: 6287844Abstract: Compositions and methods for the control of genetically engineered organisms are described. A more effective cell suicide approach is contemplated based on the conditional expression of the lethal Streptomyces avidinii streptavidin gene. Toxicity of streptavidin is derived from its exceptionally high binding affinity for an essential prosthetic group, D-biotin. The general requirement for biotin through the living world makes streptavidin-based conditional lethal designs applicable to a broad range of containment strategies.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignees: The Trustees of Boston University, The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Przemyslaw Szafranski, Charlene Mello, Takeshi Sano, Cassandra L. Smith, David L. Kaplan, Charles R. Cantor
-
Patent number: 6124129Abstract: Compositions and methods for the control of genetically engineered organisms are described. A more effective cell suicide approach is contemplated based on the conditional expression of the lethal Streptomyces avidinii streptavidin gene. Toxicity of streptavidin is derived from its exceptionally high binding affinity for an essential prosthetic group, D-biotin. The general requirement for biotin through the living world makes streptavidin-based conditional lethal designs applicable to a broad range of containment strategies.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: The Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Przemyslaw Szafranski, Charlene Mello, Takeshi Sano, Cassandra L. Smith, David L. Kaplan, Charles R. Cantor
-
Patent number: 6022951Abstract: The present invention relates to streptavidin proteins and peptides having a altered physical properties such as an increased stability or increased or decreased affinity for binding biotin. The invention also relates to methods for the detection, identification, separation and isolation of targets using streptavidin proteins or peptides. Streptavidin with increased or reduced affinity allows for the use of the streptavidin-biotin coupling systems for detection and isolation systems wherein it is necessary to remove of one or the other of the binding partners. Such systems are useful for the purification of functional proteins and viable cells. The invention also relates to nucleic acids which encode these streptavidin proteins and peptides and to recombinant cells such as bacteria, yeast and mammalian cells which contain these nucleic acids.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1996Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Inventors: Takeshi Sano, Charles R. Cantor, Sandor Vajda, Gabriel O. Reznik, Cassandra L. Smith, Mark W. Pandori
-
Patent number: 6007987Abstract: This invention is directed to methods and reagents useful for sequencing nucleic acid targets utilizing sequencing by hybridization technology comprising probes, arrays of probes and methods whereby sequence information is obtained rapidly and efficiently in discrete packages. That information can be used for the detection, identification, purification and complete or partial sequencing of a particular target nucleic acid. When coupled with a ligation step, these methods can be performed under a single set of hybridization conditions. The invention also relates to the replication of probe arrays and methods for making and replicating arrays of probes which are useful for the large scale manufacture of diagnostic aids used to screen biological samples for specific target sequences. Arrays created using PCR technology may comprise probes with 5'- and/or 3'-overhangs.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1996Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: The Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Charles R. Cantor, Marek Przetakiewicz, Takeshi Sano, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Patent number: 5965133Abstract: The invention is directed to constructs and compositions containing multimeric forms of nucleic acid. Multimeric nucleic acids comprise single-stranded nucleic acids attached via biotin to streptavidin and bound with a functional group. These constructs can be utilized in vivo to treat or identify diseased tissue or cells. Repeated administrations of multimeric nucleic acid compositions produce a rapid and specific amplification of nucleic acid constructs and their attached functional groups. For treatment purposes, functional groups may be toxins, radioisotopes, genes or enzymes. Diagnostically, labeled multimeric constructs may be used to identify specific targets in vivo or in vitro. Multimeric nucleic acids may also be used in nanotechnology and to create self-assembling polymeric aggregates such as membranes of defined porosity, microcircuits and many other products.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignees: Trustees of Boston University, Univ. of Mass. Medical CenterInventors: Charles R. Cantor, Christof M. Niemeyer, Cassandra L. Smith, Takeshi Sano, Donald J. Hnatowich, Mary Rusckowski
-
Patent number: 5795714Abstract: The invention relates to the replication of probe arrays and methods for replicating arrays of probes which are useful for the large scale manufacture of diagnostic aids used to screen biological samples for specific target sequences. Arrays created using PCR technology may comprise probes with 5'- and/or 3'-overhangs.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1993Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Assignee: Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Charles R. Cantor, Marek Przetakiewicz, Cassandra L. Smith, Takeshi Sano
-
Patent number: 5753439Abstract: The invention relates to methods for rapidly determining the sequence and/or length a target sequence. The target sequence may be a series of known or unknown repeat sequences which are hybridized to an array of probes. The hybridized array is digested with a single-strand nuclease and free 3'-hydroxyl groups extended with a nucleic acid polymerase. Nuclease cleaved heteroduplexes can be easily distinguish from nuclease uncleaved heteroduplexes by differential labeling. Probes and target can be differentially labeled with detectable labels. Matched target can be detected by cleaving resulting loops from the hybridized target and creating free 3-hydroxyl groups. These groups are recognized and extended by polymerases added into the reaction system which also adds or releases one label into solution. Analysis of the resulting products using either solid phase or solution.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1995Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Trustees of Boston UniversityInventors: Cassandra L. Smith, Ron Yaar, Przemyslaw Szafranski, Charles R. Cantor
-
Patent number: 5681745Abstract: The present invention relates to genetic containment systems which express a biotin-binding component that can be used for selectively destroying recombinant cells such as genetically engineered microorganisms. These systems may comprise a streptavidin or an avidin gene whose expression is controlled by a regulatable promoter. The regulatory agent such as a transcriptional effector is expressed from another gene which may also be expressed and its expression controlled by the containment system. Expression of the agent can be designed to respond to physiological changes in the environment. The invention also relates to containment systems and methods for the selective detection or tracking of recombinant cells and to eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells which contain these genetic containment systems.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignees: Trustees of Boston University, The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Przemyslaw Szafranski, Charlene M. Mello, Takeshi Sano, Kenneth A. Marx, Charles R. Cantor, David L. Kaplan, Cassandra L. Smith
-
Patent number: 5679533Abstract: The present invention relates to genetic containment systems which express a biotin-binding component that can be used for selectively destroying recombinant cells such as genetically engineered microorganisms. These systems may comprise a streptavidin or an avidin gene whose expression is controlled by a regulatable promoter. The regulatory agent such as a transcriptional effector is expressed from another gene which may also be expressed and its expression controlled by the containment system. Expression of the agent can be designed to respond to physiological changes in the environment. The invention also relates to containment systems and methods for the selective detection or tracking of recombinant cells and to eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells which contain these genetic containment systems.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignees: Trustees of Boston University, The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Przemyslaw Szafranski, Charlene M. Mello, Takeshi Sano, Kenneth A. Marx, Charles R. Cantor, David L. Kaplan, Cassandra L. Smith