Abstract: The present invention discloses methods for detecting the presence of a complex between a first reagent and a second reagent in solution. In particular, the invention provides methods for qualitative or quantitative detection of an analyte or its specific binding partner in complex biological samples. The invention further discloses algorithms using summary rate changes at selected wavelengths in the absorbance spectra of colloidal metal-labeled analytes or specific binding partners to identify intermolecular interactions between the analyte and its binding partner.

Abstract: The present invention discloses methods of reducing non-specific interactions of interfering species present in a sample in metallic nanoparticle-based assays, thereby increasing the sensitivity of these assays. In particular, the methods entail neutralizing the chemical reactivity of functional groups present in interfering species by addition of a neutralizing agent, such as an alkylating agent or heavy metal ion. The methods are especially useful in assays for the detection of analytes in biological samples. Reagent kits and assay mixtures for the practice of the described methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: One-step RT-PCR methods, compositions and kits for the detection and quantification of small RNAs in a sample are disclosed. The one-step RT-PCR approach involves polyadenylation of a small RNA followed by reverse transcription with a first primer containing a poly(T) sequence and at least two 3? nucleotides complementary to the 3? terminal end nucleotides of the small RNA, to produce a cDNA. This may be followed by PCR amplification using the same first primer as the revere primer and a second, forward primer in which a portion of its sequence is complementary to the 3? terminal end of the cDNA. This may be then followed by detection and/or quantification of the amplified product.

Abstract: This invention relates to polynucleotide molecules encoding cellulose synthase, promoters of cellulose synthase and cellulose synthase polypeptides, methods for genetically altering cellulose and lignin biosynthesis, and methods for improving strength properties of juvenile wood and fiber in trees. The invention further relates to methods for identifying regulatory elements in a cellulose synthase promoter and transcription factors that bind to such regulatory elements, and to methods for augmenting expression of polynucleotides operably linked to a cellulose synthase promoter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of concurrently introducing multiple genes into plants and trees is provided. The method includes simultaneous transformation of plants with multiple genes from the phenylpropanoid pathways including 4CL, CAld5H, AldOMT, SAD and CAD genes and combinations thereof to produce various lines of transgenic plants displaying altered agronomic traits. The agronomic traits of the plants are regulated by the orientation of the specific genes and the selected gene combinations, which are incorporated into the plant genome.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing syringyl lignin in gymnosperms. The production of syringyl lignin in gymnosperms is accomplished by genetically transforming a gymnosperm genome, which does not normally contain genes which code for enzymes necessary for production of syringyl lignin, with DNA which codes for enzymes found in angiosperms associated with production of syringyl lignin. The expression of the inserted DNA is mediated using host promoter regions in the gymnosperm. In addition, genetic sequences which code for gymnosperm lignin anti-sense mRNA may be incorporated into the gymnosperm genome in order to suppress the formation of the less preferred forms of lignin in the gymnosperm such as guaiacyl lignin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel DNA sequence, which encodes a previously unidentified lignin biosynthetic pathway enzyme, sinapyl alcohol dehydrogenase (SAD) that regulates the biosynthesis of syringyl lignin in plants. Also provided are methods for incorporating this novel SAD gene sequence or substantially similar sequences into a plant genome for genetic engineering of syringyl-enriched lignin in plants.

Abstract: Chloride ion and sodium ion determination methods, compositions, and assays are provided which are based on the use of sodium ion as an activator for &agr;-amylase. Chloride ion and sodium ion determination are performed by colorimetry, using measurements of &agr;-amylase activity to indirectly measure the desired ion concentrations. One preferred composition for chloride ion determination comprises &agr;-amylase that is substantially calcium free, sodium ion in higher concentration than the &agr;-amylase, and an &agr;-amylase activity detecting substrate. In the methods, &agr;-amylase is deactivated by a calcium-binding compound, thereby preventing calcium from bonding with the &agr;-amylase. Next, chloride ion and sodium ion stoichiometrically bond with deactivated &agr;-amylase, thereby activating the &agr;-amylase.

Abstract: Chloride ion and sodium ion determination methods, compositions, and assays are provided which are based on the use of sodium ion as an activator for &agr;-amylase. Chloride ion and sodium ion determination are performed by colorimetry, using measurements of &agr;-amylase activity to indirectly measure the desired ion concentrations. One preferred composition for chloride ion determination comprises &agr;-amylase that is substantially calcium free, sodium ion in higher concentration than the &agr;-amylase, and an &agr;-amylase activity detecting substrate. In the methods, &agr;-amylase is deactivated by a calcium-binding compound, thereby preventing calcium from bonding with the &agr;-amylase. Next, chloride ion and sodium ion stoichiometrically bond with deactivated &agr;-amylase, thereby activating the &agr;-amylase.