California Institute of Technology

Tim J Hunkapiller

Leroy E Hood

Lloyd M Smith

Michael W Hunkapiller

Charles R Connell

This invention provides a duplex comprising an oligonucleotide primer and a template, wherein the primer is coupled chemically to a chromophore or fluorophore so as to allow chain extension by a polymerase. In one embodiment, the primer is extended by a polymerase to generate the complement of the template. In a further embodiment, the extended primer is separated from the template for use in a number of methods, including sequencing reactions. Methods of generating these compositions of matter are further provided.

Tagged extendable primers and extension products

A process for the electrophoretic analysis of DNA fragments produced in DNA sequencing operations wherein chromophores or fluorophores are used to tag the DNA fragments produced by the sequencing chemistry and permit the detection and characterization of the fragments as they are resolved by electrophoresis through a gel. Preferably four different fragment sets are tagged with the fluorophores fluorescein, Texas Red, tetramethyl rhodamine, and 7-nitrobenzofurazan. A system for the electrophoretic analysis of DNA fragments produced in DNA sequencing operations comprising: a source of chromophore or fluorescent tagged DNA fragments; a zone for contacting an electrophoresis gel; means for introducing said tagged DNA fragments to said zone; and photometric means for monitoring said tagged DNA fragments as they move through said gel.

Automated DNA sequencing technique

A system for the electrophoretic analysis of DNA fragments produced in DNA sequencing operations comprising: a source of chromophore or fluorescent tagged DNA fragments; a zone for contacting an electrophoresis gel; means for introducing said tagged DNA fragments to said zone; and photometric means for monitoring said tagged DNA fragments as they move through said gel.

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Pasadena, CA, United States of America

Tim J Hunkapiller