Abstract: Method for the Quantitative Determination of DNA Sequences A method for the quantitative determination of DNA sequences containing at least one mutationally eliminated restriction site is disclosed in which the DNA sequences to be quantitatively determined are selectively amplified continuously eliminating any residual wild-type DNA sequences.

Abstract: The invention relates to the direct detection of human papillomavirus MRNA and DNA. The recently developed polymerase chain reaction was modified in order to improve the sensitivity and specificity. By choosing appropriate oligonucleotide primers (amplimers) and reaction temperatures, individual HPV genes from among the total cell DNA can be identified and amplified to an extent such that non-isotopic detection is possible. In addition, use of reverse transcription permits selective amplification of spliced mRNA and thus permits indication of premalignant or malignant conditions and/or lesions.

Abstract: It was possible to increase substantially the sensitivity of detection of influenza A virus by carrying out a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using oligonucleotide sequences (amplimers) from the relatively conserved region of the viral hemagglutinin gene, preceded by reverse transcription (RT). The reverse transcription and the PCR are insensitive to single mutations by base exchange in this case, as long as the 3' end of the amplimer is not affected.