Abstract: This invention provides a method for simultaneously detecting the presence of at least two enzymes in a sample, said method comprising the steps of; i) providing a first substrate for a first enzyme, said first substrate being labeled with a first fluorophore, ii) providing a second substrate for a second enzyme, said second substrate being labeled with a second fluorophore, iii) exposing the labeled substrates to the sample to allow the first and second enzymes present in the sample to interact with respective first and second fluorophore-labeled substrates to form respective first and second fluorophore-labeled substrate fragments; and, detecting the presence of said fluorophore-labeled substrate fragments.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for simultaneously detecting the presence of at least two enzymes in a sample. The method includes the steps of: i) providing a first substrate for a first enzyme, the first substrate being labeled with a first fluorophore; ii) providing a second substrate for a second enzyme, the second substrate being labeled with a second fluorophore; iii) exposing the labeled substrates to the sample to allow the first and second enzymes present in the sample to interact with respective first and second fluorophore-labeled substrates to form respective first and second fluorophore-labeled substrate fragments; and iv) detecting the presence of the fluorophore-labeled substrate fragments.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of isolating desiccation resistant cells which retain good viability over long periods of time at room temperature for a variety of applications. In one embodiment, competent cells for DNA transformation are made from selected bacterial cells which are storage stable at room temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of producing storage-stable competent cells, preparations comprising such cells, and methods of using them. More particularly, the invention relates to improved methods of generating room-temperature stable dried competent cells by exposing cells to agents and conditions that increase the survival and better maintain the competence of dried competent cells. Improvements over prior art methods are achieved by modifications of the cell growth conditions, treatments of cells before, after, or during the induction of competence, modification of competence induction methods, and modifications to drying and post-drying process steps. The invention also provides kits comprising storage-stable competent cell preparations made according to the methods of the invention.