Abstract: A method for synthesizing oligonucleotides by solid-phase methodology wherein the linkage between the oligonucleotide and the solid phase support is a non-labile phosphodiester. The spacer arm between the support and the phosphodiester is a hydrophilic group. The product of this method is an immobilized oligonucleotide which can be used in solid phase hybridization assays.

Abstract: An automated method and apparatus for performing biopolymer synthesis on a two-dimensional support surface whereby a two-dimensional matrix or array of biopolymers are obtained on the surface. An applicator in the form of a thick plate having in a surface at least one cavity in the form of an open chamber or channel is used for applying reagents to the surface of a solid phase support material. The applicator is positioned over the solid support material with the surface having the cavity sealed against the material surface. For each cavity, reagents for synthesis are introduced sequentially into one end of the cavity and collected from the other end of the cavity. A one-dimensional array of biopolymers are thus formed on the support material, where each element of the array contains a population of biopolymers having identical sequence.