Joseph T Widunas

Title: Joseph T. Widunas: Innovator in Nucleic Acid Amplification Technology

Introduction

Joseph T. Widunas is a notable inventor based in Berkeley, CA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nucleic acid amplification, holding a total of 4 patents. His work has advanced the capabilities of automated systems in molecular biology.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is an "Apparatus and method for performing automated amplification of nucleic acid." This invention discloses a machine designed to perform nucleic acid amplification under computer control. The machine employs various heating and cooling systems managed by a host computer, which directs these systems to appropriately heat and cool a reaction chamber containing a heat exchanger. The reaction chambers are pre-loaded with the necessary nucleic acids, a thermostable enzyme for catalyzing polymerization, specific oligonucleotide primers, and four different nucleotide triphosphates. Another significant patent is the "User controlled off-center light absorbance reading adjuster in a liquid." This system allows a host computer to control a plate reader that optically reads results from donor samples and reagents. Users can adjust the position of off-center light absorbance readings to enhance the machine's ability to differentiate between positive and negative agglutination reactions.

Career Highlights

Joseph T. Widunas has worked at Cetus Corporation, where he has been instrumental in developing innovative technologies in the field of molecular biology. His expertise in automated systems has positioned him as a key figure in advancing nucleic acid amplification techniques.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Joseph has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard A. Leath and Larry J. Johnson. These collaborations have contributed to the development of groundbreaking technologies in the field.

Conclusion

Joseph T. Widunas is a distinguished inventor whose work in nucleic acid amplification technology has had a profound impact on molecular biology. His innovative patents and contributions continue to shape the future of automated systems in this critical field.