Two-step, PCR-free telomerase detection by using exonuclease III-aided target recycling

Chembiochem. 2011 Dec 16;12(18):2745-7. doi: 10.1002/cbic.201100592. Epub 2011 Nov 28.

Abstract

We report the sensitive detection of telomerase activity by using exonuclease III-aided target recycling to amplify the signal produced by a chimeric LNA-DNA molecular beacon. We demonstrate the specific detection of as few as 30 telomerase-positive breast cancer cells in a single-measurement fluorescence assay that avoids the problematic PCR and gel analysis of the current "gold-standard" assay.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Base Sequence
  • Cell Line
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • DNA Probes
  • Exodeoxyribonucleases / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Telomerase / metabolism*

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • Telomerase
  • Exodeoxyribonucleases
  • exodeoxyribonuclease III