Abstract: The invention is directed to compositions, methods and kits for HIV subtypes in a test sample, wherein target sequence are amplified. The amplified target sequences are then analyzed by any number of mass spectrometric techniques, which data are queried against a database of base composition signatures of HIV subtypes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to compositions, methods and kits for diagnosing cancers and tumors correlated with mutations in codons 12 and 13 of human K-RAS using primers that amplify target sequences. The amplified target sequences are then analyzed by any number of mass spectrometric techniques, which data are queried against a database of base composition signatures of K-RAS mutations in codons 12 and 13.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for detecting the methylation status of a nucleic acid. In particular, the present invention provides a mass spectrometry-based method of determining DNA methylation status without sequencing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to assays and kits for determining tropism of HIV-1 for a chemokine receptor in a test sample obtained from a subject.

Abstract: A method for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence sequence using nucleic acid amplification wherein hybridization probes for detection of the amplified target sequence are present during the amplification reaction.

Abstract: A method and kits for amplifying and detecting target nucleic acid sequences in a sample is disclosed. The method employs primers which have reactive pair members linked to them. The reactive pair members can be attached to a solid phase and/or detected by labeled conjugate.

Abstract: The present invention involves methods of improving LCR and PCR amplification schemes by modifying at least one probe/primer end so that the probability of the probe/prirner contributing to spurious signal development is greatly reduced. Only after specific hybridization of the modified probe/primer with true target, are the modified ends "corrected" in a target dependent fashion to allow participation of the probe/primer in the enzymatic assembly reaction. Specific modifications depend on whether the assembly is done by ligation (as in LCR) or by extension/elongation (as in PCR).

Abstract: Short nucleotide sequences of human papilloma virus useful for the determination of the presence and type of human papilloma virus present in a test sample. The sequences provided can be amplified by polymerase chain reaction or ligase chain reaction. The sequences provided also can be hybridized by standard slot-, dot- or replica-blot procedures. Methods and kits also are provided for the detection of human papilloma virus in a test sample and the determination of the type of human papilloma virus present in the test sample.

Abstract: An improved, "gap filling" embodiment of the Ligase Chain Reaction (LCR) is described. Gap filling LCR is LCR wherein at least one of the probes is recessed so that a gap is formed between the adjacent probes when they are hybridized to target. The gap is filled using polymerase and deoxyribonucleotide triphosphates before ligation of the probes together. There are single and double gap versions, depending on whether one or two probes are recessed and require filling before ligation. The improvement resides in selecting and using target sequences such that only a single type, or two types, of deoxyribonucleotide triphosphate(s) are required to fill double gaps each being 1-10 bases in length, preferably 1-3 bases. Probes having specific sequences are claimed for a number of pathogens.