Abstract: This invention relates to methods, kits and compositions suitable for the improved detection, analysis and quantitation of nucleic acid target sequences using probe based hybridization assays. The invention is more specifically directed to methods, kits and compositions suitable for suppressing the binding of detectable nucleic acid probes or detectable PNA probes to non-target nucleic acid sequences in an assay for a target nucleic acid sequence to thereby improve the reliability, sensitivity and specificity of the assay. The methods, kits and compositions of this invention are particularly well suited to the detection and analysis of nucleic acid point mutations.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, kits and compositions suitable for the improved detection, analysis and quantitation of nucleic acid target sequences using probe based hybridization assays. The invention is more specifically directed to methods, kits and compositions suitable for suppressing the binding of detectable nucleic acid probes or detectable PNA probes to non-target nucleic acid sequences in an assay for a target nucleic acid sequence to thereby improve the reliability, sensitivity and specificity of the assay. The methods, kits and compositions of this invention are particularly well suited to the detection and analysis of nucleic acid point mutations.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, kits and compositions suitable for the improved detection, analysis and quantitation of nucleic acid target sequences using probe based hybridization assays. The invention is more specifically directed to methods, kits and compositions suitable for suppressing the binding of detectable nucleic acid probes or detectable PNA probes to non-target nucleic acid sequences in an assay for a target nucleic acid sequence to thereby improve the reliability, sensitivity and specificity of the assay. The methods, kits and compositions of this invention are particularly well suited to the detection and analysis of nucleic acid point mutations.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for converting peroxycarboxylic acids to carboxylic acids, the process comprising treating a peroxycarboxylic acid of the general formula I:R--CO--OOH (I)wherein R is a linear or branched alkyl group, an aryl group or an aryl-alkyl group each of which may optionally be substituted with one or more hydroxy, halogen, alkoxy, amino, alkylamino, sulfo, sulfoxy, sulfono, amido, carboxy, percarboxy or nitro groups, with an enzyme catalyst to form the corresponding carboxylic acid of the general formula II:R--CO--OH (II)wherein R has the meaning indicated above.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula (R-COO).sub.n X-OR.sup.1, wherein R.sup.1 is optionally substituted alkyl, phenyl, or alkyl phenyl, n is 1, 2 or 3, X is a carbohydrate moiety, and R is optionally substituted alkyl, have superior effects as additives in detergents. These compounds can be prepared by esterification of glycosides using specific enzymes.

Abstract: A novel cyanide converting enzyme, a "cyanidase" is described.The enzyme is extremely efficient in reducing substantial concentrations of cyanide to very low levels in a broad pH, and temperature range, and in the presence of organics and metal ions.

Abstract: An epoxy group in a molecule can enzymatically be transferred to another molecule, thereby synthesizing carbohydrates carrying an epoxy group in the aglycone position.

Abstract: Fermented alcoholic products such as wine and beer are produced having a low diacetyl content by decomposing acetolactate with an enzyme. The enzyme is preferably acetolactate decarboxylase contained by Aerobacter aerogenes. The enzyme, in free or immobilized state, may be added during main fermentation or after main fermentation during maturation such as when carrying out malo-lactic fermentation.