Abstract: The invention provides for methods of end labelling a ds DNA molecule with a bar-code as well as adaptor mediated methodology for creating single stranded overhanging ends, lengthening single stranded overhanging ends, controlled size reduction of labelled ds DNA molecules, and adaptor mediated sequencing. Also disclosed are methods for parallel sequencing of multiple ds DNA molecules in a mixture by visual means.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of sequencing a nucleic acid, comprising either sequentially removing bases from the sequence of the nucleic acid a predetermined number at a time, with the product remaining from each step of predetermined base removal being ligated to a labeled adapter specific for said bases and including oligonucleotide sequence, or hybridizing a primer to the nucleic acid to be sequenced and sequentially extending said primer a predetermined number of bases at a time, said added base(s) being complementary to base(s) in the nucleic acid being sequenced, and each of said base addition steps being achieved by the use of a labeled adaptor specific for said bases and including oligonucleotide sequence containing said predetermined base(s); in either case, the label of said labeled adaptor being specific for its respective predetermined base(s).

Abstract: A process for the categorization of nucleic acid sequences in which said sequences are linked to a population of adaptor molecules each exhibiting specificity for linking to a sequence including a predetermined nucleotide base, categorization of the resulting linked sequences being based upon selection for the base.