Abstract: The present invention provides novel binding pair compositions of defined and limited stability comprising nucleic acid detection markers useful for the homogeneous, sensitive detection of analytes. Also provided are methods for the sensitive homogeneous detection of analytes, particularly analytes of clinical relevance. Kits for preparing binding pairs of the invention and for performing the methods of the invention are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to labeling antibodies with DNA in a convenient kit format for the purpose of producing and utilizing nucleic acid detection immunoassays. The process comprises treating a reporter antibody with a chemically activated strand of DNA, which serves as a template for any DNA amplification system. The reporter antibody-DNA conjugate is used to form a complex with corresponding antigen. The complex can be detected by the production of multiple copies of the DNA template. The kit may also provide an activated DNA sequence to label a capture antibody. The DNA conjugated to the capture antibody is modified to contain a high affinity binding ligand for the purpose of coating a solid support. The coated solid support functions to capture the immune complex containing reporter antibody in a sandwich assay format. The DNA sequence of the capture antibody may also have properties providing for the detachment of the complex from the solid support.