The University of Texas System

Am Biotechnologies, Inc.

Muniz Engineering, Inc.

Mei Technologies, Inc.

Johnnie Engelhardt

David G Gorenstein

Bruce A Luxon

Ross Durland

Weiguo He

Miguel-Angel Elizondo-Riojas

David E Volk

Scott David Ritterhouse

Provided herein are methods for a novel bead-based next-generation 'X-aptamer' selection scheme that extends aptamer technology to include X-modified bases, thus resulting in X-aptamers, at any position along the sequence because the aptamers are chemically synthesized via a split-pool scheme on individual beads. Also provides are application to a wide range of commonly used DNA modifications, including, but not limited to, monothioate and dithioate backbone substitutions. This new class of aptamer allows chemical modifications introduced to any of the bases in the aptamer sequence as well as the phosphate backbones and can be extended to other carbohydrate-based systems.

Methods of X-aptamer generation and compositions thereof

Apparatus and methods are described for split synthesis combinatorial chemistry that provides candidate libraries where an even distribution of theoretical products is obtainable through even mixing during the pooling step, followed by controlled redistribution of the mixed pooled products from the prior addition step into separate synthesis columns, one for each different specie of subunit to be added.

Process and apparatus for combinatorial synthesis

A payload deployment system is described that includes an external shell or tube within which an internal cargo unit is placed. The internal cargo unit encapsulates one or more payloads and seals the external shell or tube. Payloads are deployed in a two step process. The first step involves ejecting the internal cargo unit from the external shell or tube. The second step involves separating the internal cargo unit into two or more pieces in a controlled and, possibly, time-sequenced manner so as to deploy one or more payloads housed within the internal cargo unit. The internal cargo unit is ejected from the external shell or tube by a first separation device and the internal cargo unit is separated by a second separation device. Illustrative separation devices include, but are not limited to, pyrotechnic and clamp-and-spring devices. Additional payloads may be fixedly attached to an inner surface of the external shell or tube in such a manner that they remain in place even after the internal cargo unit is ejected and the associated payloads are deployed.

Payload deployment system with an internal cargo unit

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West Columbia, TX, United States of America

Johnnie Engelhardt