Abstract: An improved method of amplifying nucleic acids comprising the use of four discrete temperature steps in a thermocyclic amplification reaction, as well as, a method of detecting large nucleic acid insertions or deletions such as those that occur from gene duplication or deletion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a molecular probe comprising a 3′ portion; a 5′ portion; and a center portion, that is complementary to a target sequence between the 3′ and 5′ portions. The 3′ portion is complementary to the 5′ portion such that when the 3′ portion is hybridized to the 5′ portion the probe has a stem loop structure. Additionally, parts of either or both of the 3′ or 5′ portions of the probe are complementary to the target sequence. Methods for using such probes are also provided.

Abstract: Methods for detecting various types of polymorphic nucleic acid sequences are provided herein. The detection methods are based upon nucleic acid amplification procedures and the ability to detect “large” deletions or insertions in an automated fashion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a molecular probe comprising a 3′ portion; a 5′ portion; and a center portion, that is complementary to a target sequence between the 3′ and 5′ portions. The 3′ portion is complementary to the 5′ portion such that when the 3′ portion is hybridized to the 5′ portion the probe has a stem loop structure. Additionally, parts of either or both of the 3′ or 5′ portions of the probe are complementary to the target sequence. Methods for using such probes are also provided.