Detection of low-copy-number genomic DNA sequences in individual bacterial cells by using peptide nucleic acid-assisted rolling-circle amplification and fluorescence in situ hybridization

Construction of rolling circle amplification products-based pure nucleic acid nanostructures for biomedical applications

Nucleic acid nanomaterials with good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and programmability have important applications in biomedical field. Nucleic acid nanomaterials are usually combined with some inorganic nanomaterials to improve their biological stability. However, undefined toxic side effects of composite nanocarriers hamper their application in vivo. As a nanotool capable of avoiding potential biotoxicity, nanostructures composed entirely of DNA oligonucleotides have been rapidly developed in the field of biomedicine in recent years. Rolling circle amplification (RCA) is an isothermal enzymatic nucleic acid amplification technology for large-scale production of periodic DNA/RNA with pre-designed desirable structures and functions. RCA products with different functional parts can be customized by changing the sequence of the circular template, thereby generating complex multifunctional DNA nanostructures, such as DNA nanowire, nanoflower, origami, nanotube, nanoribbon, etc. More importantly, RCA products as nonnicked building blocks can enhance the biostability of DNA nanostructures, especially in vivo. These RCA products-based nucleic acid nanostructures can be used as scaffolds or nanocarriers to interact or load with metal nanoparticles, proteins, lipids, cationic polymers, therapeutic nucleic acids or drugs, etc. This paper reviews the assembly strategies of RCA based DNA nanostructures with different shape and their applications in biosensing, bioimaging and biomedicine. Finally, the development prospects of the nucleic acid nanomaterials in clinical diagnosis and treatment of diseases are described. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: As a nanotool capable of avoiding potential biotoxicity, nanostructures composed entirely of DNA oligonucleotides have been rapidly developed in the field of biomedicine in recent years. Rolling circle amplification (RCA) is an isothermal enzymatic nucleic acid amplification technology for large-scale production of periodic DNA/RNA with pre-designed desirable structures and functions. This paper reviews the construction of various shapes of pure nucleic acid nanomaterials based on RCA products and their applications in biosensing, bioimaging and biomedicine. This will promote the development of biocompatible DNA nanovehicles and their further application in living systems, including bioimaging, molecular detection, disease diagnosis and drug delivery, finally producing a significant impact in the field of nanotechnology and nanomedicine.

Chemical approaches to discover the full potential of peptide nucleic acids in biomedical applications

Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) is arguably one of the most successful DNA mimics, despite a most dramatic departure from the native structure of DNA. The present review summarizes 30 years of research on PNA's chemistry, optimization of structure and function, applications as probes and diagnostics, and attempts to develop new PNA therapeutics. The discussion starts with a brief review of PNA's binding modes and structural features, followed by the most impactful chemical modifications, PNA enabled assays and diagnostics, and discussion of the current state of development of PNA therapeutics. While many modifications have improved on PNA's binding affinity and specificity, solubility and other biophysical properties, the original PNA is still most frequently used in diagnostic and other in vitro applications. Development of therapeutics and other in vivo applications of PNA has notably lagged behind and is still limited by insufficient bioavailability and difficulties with tissue specific delivery. Relatively high doses are required to overcome poor cellular uptake and endosomal entrapment, which increases the risk of toxicity. These limitations remain unsolved problems waiting for innovative chemistry and biology to unlock the full potential of PNA in biomedical applications.

Next-generation fluorescent nucleic acids probes for microscopic analysis of intracellular nucleic acids

Fluorescence imaging of nucleic acids is a very important technique necessary to understand gene expression and the resulting changes in cell function. This mini-review focuses on sequence-specific fluorescence imaging of intracellular RNA and methylated DNA using fluorescent nucleic acid probes. A couple of functional fluorescent nucleic acid probes developed by our laboratory are introduced and the examples of their application to fluorescence imaging of intracellular nucleic acids are described.

Discrimination of the V600E Mutation in BRAF by Rolling Circle Amplification and Förster Resonance Energy Transfer

The quantification of very low concentrations of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) biomarkers from liquid biopsies has become an important requirement for clinical diagnostics and personalized medicine. In particular, the simultaneous detection of wild-type (WT) dsDNA and their cancer-related counterparts presenting single-point mutations with simple, sensitive, specific, and reproducible technologies is paramount for ctDNA assays in clinical practice. Here, we present the development and evaluation of an amplified dsDNA assay based on a combination of isothermal rolling circle amplification (RCA) and time-gated Förster resonance energy transfer (TG-FRET) between a Tb donor and two dye (Cy3.5 and Cy5.5) acceptors. The RCA-FRET assay is free of washing and separation steps and can quantify both WT and mutated (MT) (V600E) dsDNA in the BRAF gene from a single sample in the 75 fM to 4.5 pM (4.5 × 10⁵ to 2.7 × 10⁷ copies) concentration range. This assay includes all steps from denaturation of the dsDNA targets to the final duplexed quantification of WT and MT targets. High assay performance at different dsDNA sequence lengths and high target specificity even in the presence of a large excess of nonspecific cell-free DNA from human plasma samples demonstrated the applicability to clinical samples. The RCA-FRET single-point mutation sensor has the potential to become an important complementary technique for analyzing liquid biopsies in advanced cancer diagnostics.

Research Progress on Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA)-Based Biomedical Sensing

Enhancing the limit of detection (LOD) is significant for crucial diseases. Cancer development could take more than 10 years, from one mutant cell to a visible tumor. Early diagnosis facilitates more effective treatment and leads to higher survival rate for cancer patients. Rolling circle amplification (RCA) is a simple and efficient isothermal enzymatic process that utilizes nuclease to generate long single stranded DNA (ssDNA) or RNA. The functional nucleic acid unit (aptamer, DNAzyme) could be replicated hundreds of times in a short period, and a lower LOD could be achieved if those units are combined with an enzymatic reaction, Surface Plasmon Resonance, electrochemical, or fluorescence detection, and other different kinds of biosensor. Multifarious RCA-based platforms have been developed to detect a variety of targets including DNA, RNA, SNP, proteins, pathogens, cytokines, micromolecules, and diseased cells. In this review, improvements in using the RCA technique for medical biosensors and biomedical applications were summarized and future trends in related research fields described.

Dual functional Phi29 DNA polymerase-triggered exponential rolling circle amplification for sequence-specific detection of target DNA embedded in long-stranded genomic DNA

An exonucleolytic digestion-assisted exponential rolling circle amplification (RCA) strategy was developed for sensitive and sequence-specific detection of target DNA embedded in long-stranded genomic DNA. Herein, Phi29 DNA polymerase plays two important roles as exonuclease and polymerase. Long-stranded genomic DNAs can be broken into small DNA fragments after ultrasonication. The fragments that contain target DNA, hybridize with a linear padlock probe to trigger the formation of a circular RCA template. The tails protruding from the 3'-end of the target DNA sequences are then digested by the 3' → 5' exonuclease activity of Phi29 DNA polymerase even if they fold into a double-stranded structure. The digested DNA fragments can then initiate subsequent RCA reaction. RCA products, which are designed to fold into G-quadruplex structures, exponentially accumulate when appropriate nicking endonuclease recognition sites are introduced rationally into the RCA template. This method is demonstrated to work well for real genomic DNA detection using human pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans as a model. In addition, this work has two other important discoveries: First, the presence of a 3'-tail can protect the RCA primer from degradation by Phi29 DNA polymerase. Second, 3' → 5' exonucleolytic activity of Phi29 DNA polymerase can work for both single- and double-stranded DNA.

Next-generation bis-locked nucleic acids with stacking linker and 2'-glycylamino-LNA show enhanced DNA invasion into supercoiled duplexes

Targeting and invading double-stranded DNA with synthetic oligonucleotides under physiological conditions remain a challenge. Bis-locked nucleic acids (bisLNAs) are clamp-forming oligonucleotides able to invade into supercoiled DNA via combined Hoogsteen and Watson–Crick binding. To improve the bisLNA design, we investigated its mechanism of binding. Our results suggest that bisLNAs bind via Hoogsteen-arm first, followed by Watson–Crick arm invasion, initiated at the tail. Based on this proposed hybridization mechanism, we designed next-generation bisLNAs with a novel linker able to stack to adjacent nucleobases, a new strategy previously not applied for any type of clamp-constructs. Although the Hoogsteen-arm limits the invasion, upon incorporation of the stacking linker, bisLNA invasion is significantly more efficient than for non-clamp, or nucleotide-linker containing LNA-constructs. Further improvements were obtained by substituting LNA with 2′-glycylamino-LNA, contributing a positive charge. For regular bisLNAs a 14-nt tail significantly enhances invasion. However, when two stacking linkers were incorporated, tail-less bisLNAs were able to efficiently invade. Finally, successful targeting of plasmids inside bacteria clearly demonstrates that strand invasion can take place in a biologically relevant context.

Ultrasensitive detection of DNA and protein markers in cancer cells

Cancer cells differ from normal cells in various parameters, and these differences are caused by genomic mutations and consequential altered gene expression. The genetic and functional heterogeneity of tumor cells is a major challenge in cancer research, detection, and effective treatment. As such, the use of diagnostic methods is important to reveal this heterogeneity at the single-cell level. Droplet microfluidic devices are effective tools that provide exceptional sensitivity for analyzing single cells and molecules. In this review, we highlight two novel methods that employ droplet microfluidics for ultra-sensitive detection of nucleic acids and protein markers in cancer cells. We also discuss the future practical applications of these methods.

Visual detection of bacterial pathogens via PNA-based padlock probe assembly and isothermal amplification of DNAzymes

We have developed a self-reporting isothermal system for visual bacterial pathogen detection with single base resolution. The new DNA diagnostic is based on combination of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) technology, rolling circle amplification (RCA) and DNAzymes. PNAs are used as exceedingly selective chemical tools that bind genomic DNA at a predetermined sequence under nondenaturing conditions. After assembly of the PNA-DNA construct a padlock probe is circularized on the free strand. The probe incorporates a G-quadruplex structure flanked by nicking enzyme recognition sites. The assembled circle serves as a template for a novel hybrid RCA strategy that allows for exponential amplification and production of short single-stranded DNA pieces. These DNA fragments fold into G-quadruplex structures and when complexed with hemin become functional DNAzymes. The catalytic activity of each DNAzyme unit leads to colorimetric detection and provides the second amplification step. The combination of PNA, RCA, and DNAzymes allows for sequence-specific and highly sensitive detection of bacteria with a colorimetric output observed with the naked eye. Herein, we apply this method for the discrimination of Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Clostridium difficile genomes.

PNA-based microbial pathogen identification and resistance marker detection: An accurate, isothermal rapid assay based on genome-specific features

With the rapidly growing availability of the entire genome sequences of microbial pathogens, there is unmet need for increasingly sensitive systems to monitor the gene-specific markers for diagnosis of bacteremia that enables an earlier detection of causative agent and determination of drug resistance. To address these challenges, a novel FISH-type genomic sequence-based molecular technique is proposed that can identify bacteria and simultaneously detect antibiotic resistance markers for rapid and accurate testing of pathogens. The approach is based on a synergistic combination of advanced Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA)-based technology and signal-enhancing Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA) reaction to achieve a highly specific and sensitive assay. A specific PNA-DNA construct serves as an exceedingly selective and very effective biomarker, while RCA enhances detection sensitivity and provide with a highly multiplexed assay system. Distinct-color fluorescent decorator probes are used to identify about 20-nucleotide-long signature sequences in bacterial genomic DNA and/or key genetic markers of drug resistance in order to identify and characterize various pathogens. The technique's potential and its utility for clinical diagnostics are illustrated by identification of S. aureus with simultaneous discrimination of methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) versus methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains. Overall these promising results hint to the adoption of PNA-based rapid sensitive detection for diagnosis of other clinically relevant organisms. Thereby, new assay enables significantly earlier administration of appropriate antimicrobial therapy and may, thus have a positive impact on the outcome of the patient.

Sequence specificity at targeting double-stranded DNA with a γ-PNA oligomer modified with guanidinium G-clamp nucleobases

γ-PNA, a new class of peptide nucleic acids, promises to overcome previous sequence limitations of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) targeting with PNA. To check the potential of γ-PNA, we have synthesized a biotinylated, pentadecameric γ-PNA of mixed sequence carrying three guanidinium G-clamp nucleobases. We have found that strand invasion reactions of the γ-PNA oligomer to its fully complementary target within dsDNA occurs with significantly higher binding rates than to targets containing single mismatches. Association of the PNA oligomer to mismatched targets does not go to completion but instead reaches a stationary level at or below 60%, even at conditions of very low ionic strength. Initial binding rates to both matched and mismatched targets experience a steep decrease with increasing salt concentration. We demonstrate that a linear DNA target fragment with the correct target sequence can be purified from DNA mixtures containing mismatched target or unrelated genomic DNA by affinity capture with streptavidin-coated magnetic beads. Similarly, supercoiled plasmid DNA is obtained with high purity from an initial sample mixture that included a linear DNA fragment with the fully complementary sequence. Based on the results obtained in this study we believe that γ-PNA has a great potential for specific targeting of chosen duplex DNA sites in a sequence-unrestricted fashion.

PNA openers and their applications for bacterial DNA diagnostics

The unique ability of triplex-forming PNAs to invade the double helix has made it possible to develop a highly specific and sensitive approach for bacterial detection. The method uses short, about 20-bp-long, signature sequences presented as a single copy in the bacterial genome. Bacterial cells are fixed on slides and the PD-loop structure is assembled on the signature site with the help of PNA openers, which includes the circular probe. The sensitivity of the method is achieved via Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA) of the circular probe. The obtained amplicon is detected using short ssDNA decorator probes carrying fluorophores and via standard fluorescent microscopy.

In situ visualization of newly synthesized proteins in environmental microbes using amino acid tagging and click chemistry

Here we describe the application of a new click chemistry method for fluorescent tracking of protein synthesis in individual microorganisms within environmental samples. This technique, termed bioorthogonal non-canonical amino acid tagging (BONCAT), is based on the in vivo incorporation of the non-canonical amino acid L-azidohomoalanine (AHA), a surrogate for l-methionine, followed by fluorescent labelling of AHA-containing cellular proteins by azide-alkyne click chemistry. BONCAT was evaluated with a range of phylogenetically and physiologically diverse archaeal and bacterial pure cultures and enrichments, and used to visualize translationally active cells within complex environmental samples including an oral biofilm, freshwater and anoxic sediment. We also developed combined assays that couple BONCAT with ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-targeted fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), enabling a direct link between taxonomic identity and translational activity. Using a methanotrophic enrichment culture incubated under different conditions, we demonstrate the potential of BONCAT-FISH to study microbial physiology in situ. A direct comparison of anabolic activity using BONCAT and stable isotope labelling by nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry ((15)NH(3) assimilation) for individual cells within a sediment-sourced enrichment culture showed concordance between AHA-positive cells and (15)N enrichment. BONCAT-FISH offers a fast, inexpensive and straightforward fluorescence microscopy method for studying the in situ activity of environmental microbes on a single-cell level.

Application of PNA openers for fluorescence-based detection of bacterial DNA

Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) openers have the unique ability to invade double-stranded DNA with high efficiency and sequence specificity, making it possible to detect short (about 20 bp), single-copy bacterial DNA sequences. PNA openers bind to a target signature site on one strand of bacterial DNA, leaving the other strand open for hybridization with a circularizable oligonucleotide probe. The assembled complex serves as a template for rolling circle amplification. The obtained amplicon is decorated with short, single-stranded DNA probes carrying fluorophores and detected via fluorescence microscopy.

In situ visualization of newly synthesized proteins in environmental microbes using amino acid tagging and click chemistry

Here we describe the application of a new click chemistry method for fluorescent tracking of protein synthesis in individual microorganisms within environmental samples. This technique, termed bioorthogonal non-canonical amino acid tagging (BONCAT), is based on the in vivo incorporation of the non-canonical amino acid L-azidohomoalanine (AHA), a surrogate for l-methionine, followed by fluorescent labelling of AHA-containing cellular proteins by azide-alkyne click chemistry. BONCAT was evaluated with a range of phylogenetically and physiologically diverse archaeal and bacterial pure cultures and enrichments, and used to visualize translationally active cells within complex environmental samples including an oral biofilm, freshwater and anoxic sediment. We also developed combined assays that couple BONCAT with ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-targeted fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), enabling a direct link between taxonomic identity and translational activity. Using a methanotrophic enrichment culture incubated under different conditions, we demonstrate the potential of BONCAT-FISH to study microbial physiology in situ. A direct comparison of anabolic activity using BONCAT and stable isotope labelling by nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry ((15)NH(3) assimilation) for individual cells within a sediment-sourced enrichment culture showed concordance between AHA-positive cells and (15)N enrichment. BONCAT-FISH offers a fast, inexpensive and straightforward fluorescence microscopy method for studying the in situ activity of environmental microbes on a single-cell level.

Fluorescent probes for nucleic Acid visualization in fixed and live cells

This review analyses the literature concerning non-fluorescent and fluorescent probes for nucleic acid imaging in fixed and living cells from the point of view of their suitability for imaging intracellular native RNA and DNA. Attention is mainly paid to fluorescent probes for fluorescence microscopy imaging. Requirements for the target-binding part and the fluorophore making up the probe are formulated. In the case of native double-stranded DNA, structure-specific and sequence-specific probes are discussed. Among the latest, three classes of dsDNA-targeting molecules are described: (i) sequence-specific peptides and proteins; (ii) triplex-forming oligonucleotides and (iii) polyamide oligo(N-methylpyrrole/N-methylimidazole) minor groove binders. Polyamides seem to be the most promising targeting agents for fluorescent probe design, however, some technical problems remain to be solved, such as the relatively low sequence specificity and the high background fluorescence inside the cells. Several examples of fluorescent probe applications for DNA imaging in fixed and living cells are cited. In the case of intracellular RNA, only modified oligonucleotides can provide such sequence-specific imaging. Several approaches for designing fluorescent probes are considered: linear fluorescent probes based on modified oligonucleotide analogs, molecular beacons, binary fluorescent probes and template-directed reactions with fluorescence probe formation, FRET donor-acceptor pairs, pyrene excimers, aptamers and others. The suitability of all these methods for living cell applications is discussed.

Fluorescence imaging of single-copy DNA sequences within the human genome using PNA-directed padlock probe assembly

We present an approach for fluorescent in situ detection of short, single-copy sequences within genomic DNA in human cells. The single-copy sensitivity and single-base specificity of our method is achieved due to the combination of three components. First, a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probe locally opens a chosen target site, which allows a padlock DNA probe to access the site and become ligated. Second, rolling circle amplification (RCA) generates thousands of single-stranded copies of the target sequence. Finally, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is used to visualize the amplified DNA. We validate this technique by successfully detecting six single-copy target sites on human mitochondrial and autosomal DNA. We also demonstrate the high selectivity of this method by detecting X- and Y-specific sequences on human sex chromosomes and by simultaneously detecting three sequence-specific target sites. Finally, we discriminate two target sites that differ by 2 nt. The PNA-RCA-FISH approach is a distinctive in situ hybridization method capable of multitarget visualization within human chromosomes and nuclei that does not require DNA denaturation and is extremely sequence specific.

Target DNA detection and quantitation on a single cell with single base resolution

In this report, we present a new method for sensitive detection of short DNA sites in single cells with single base resolution. The method combines peptide nucleic acid (PNA) openers as the tagging probes, together with isothermal rolling circle amplification (RCA) and fluorescence-based detection, all performed in a cells-in-flow format. Bis-PNAs provide single base resolution, while RCA ensures linear signal amplification. We applied this method to detect the oncoviral DNA inserts in cancer cell lines using a flow-cytometry system. We also demonstrated quantitative detection of the selected signature sites within single cells in microfluidic nano-liter droplets. Our results show single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discrimination and detection of copy-number variations (CNV) under isothermal non-denaturing conditions. This new method is ideal for many applications in which ultra-sensitive DNA characterization with single base resolution is desired on the level of single cells.

Rolling circle amplification combined with nanoparticle aggregates for highly sensitive identification of DNA and cancer cells

An electrochemical biosensor based on rolling circle amplification (RCA) and nanoparticle aggregates for highly sensitive identification of DNA and cancer cells were established in this work. First, a "sandwich-type" DNA complexes containing target DNA was constructed on the surface of the magnetic beads. Second, one part of the primer in the "sandwich-type" DNA complexes induced the RCA in the system. Then the long RCA products were digested to construct another "sandwich-type" DNA complex for the electrochemical detection. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) peaks with high signal intensity were obtained, and the signal intensities were found to be dependent on the amount of Fc, which is related to the concentration of target DNA. Under the optimum conditions, the electrochemical signal intensity was increased with the increase of the concentration of target DNA. A detection limit of 2.8×10⁻¹⁸ M of target DNA was achieved. Combined with aptamers technology, the proposed signal amplification strategy was also used for the identification of cancer cells with the detection limit of 100 Ramos cells mL⁻¹.

Identification of nitrite-reducing bacteria using sequential mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization and fluorescence-assisted cell sorting

Sequential mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (mRNA FISH) and fluorescence-assisted cell sorting (SmRFF) was used for the identification of nitrite-reducing bacteria in mixed microbial communities. An oligonucleotide probe labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to target mRNA of nirS, the gene that encodes nitrite reductase, the enzyme responsible for the dissimilatory reduction of nitrite to nitric oxide. Clones for nirS expression were constructed and used to provide proof of concept for the SmRFF method. In addition, cells from pure cultures of Pseudomonas stutzeri and denitrifying activated sludge were hybridized with the HRP probe, and tyramide signal amplification was performed, conferring a strongly fluorescent signal to cells containing nirS mRNA. Flow cytometry-assisted cell sorting was used to detect and physically separate two subgroups from a mixed microbial community: non-fluorescent cells and an enrichment of fluorescent, nitrite-reducing cells. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and subsequent sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes were used to compare the fragments amplified from the two sorted subgroups. Sequences from bands isolated from DGGE profiles suggested that the dominant, active nitrite reducers were closely related to Acidovorax BSB421. Furthermore, following mRNA FISH detection of nitrite-reducing bacteria, 16S rRNA FISH was used to detect ammonia-oxidizing and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria on the same activated sludge sample. We believe that the molecular approach described can be useful as a tool to help address the longstanding challenge of linking function to identity in natural and engineered habitats.

Cascade signal amplification strategy for the detection of cancer cells by rolling circle amplification and nanoparticles tagging

A cascade signal amplification strategy was proposed for detection of cancer cells at ultralow concentration by combining the rolling circle amplification (RCA) technique with oligonucleotide functionalized nanoparticles (NPs), and anodic stripping voltammetric detection. This flexible biosensing system exhibited high sensitivity and specificity with the detection limits of 10 Ramos cells mL(-1).

New trends in fluorescence in situ hybridization for identification and functional analyses of microbes

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has become an indispensable tool for rapid and direct single-cell identification of microbes by detecting signature regions in their rRNA molecules. Recent advances in this field include new web-based tools for assisting probe design and optimization of experimental conditions, easy-to-implement signal amplification strategies, innovative multiplexing approaches, and the combination of FISH with transmission electron microscopy or extracellular staining techniques. Further emerging developments focus on sorting FISH-identified cells for subsequent single-cell genomics and on the direct detection of specific genes within single microbial cells by advanced FISH techniques employing various strategies for massive signal amplification.

Nick sealing by T4 DNA ligase on a modified DNA template: tethering a functional molecule on D-threoninol

Efficient DNA nick sealing catalyzed by T4 DNA ligase was carried out on a modified DNA template in which an intercalator such as azobenzene had been introduced. The intercalator was attached to a D-threoninol linker inserted into the DNA backbone. Although the structure of the template at the point of ligation was completely different from that of native DNA, two ODNs could be connected with yields higher than 90% in most cases. A systematic study of sequence dependence demonstrated that the ligation efficiency varied greatly with the base pairs adjacent to the azobenzene moiety. Interestingly, when the introduced azobenzene was photoisomerized to the cis form on subjection to UV light (320-380 nm), the rates of ligation were greatly accelerated for all sequences investigated. These unexpected ligations might provide a new approach for the introduction of functional molecules into long DNA strands in cases in which direct PCR cannot be used because of blockage of DNA synthesis by the introduced functional molecule. The biological significance of this unexpected enzymatic action is also discussed on the basis of kinetic analysis.

GeneFISH--an in situ technique for linking gene presence and cell identity in environmental microorganisms

Our knowledge concerning the metabolic potentials of as yet to be cultured microorganisms has increased tremendously with the advance of sequencing technologies and the consequent discoveries of novel genes. On the other hand, it is often difficult to reliably assign a particular gene to a phylogenetic clade, because these sequences are usually found on genomic fragments that carry no direct marker of cell identity, such as rRNA genes. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to develop geneFISH - a protocol for linking gene presence with cell identity in environmental samples, the signals of which can be visualized at a single cell level. This protocol combines rRNA-targeted catalysed reporter deposition - fluorescence in situ hybridization and in situ gene detection. To test the protocol, it was applied to seawater samples from the Benguela upwelling system. For gene detection, a polynucleotide probe mix was used, which was designed based on crenarchaeotal amoA clone libraries prepared from each seawater sample. Each probe in the mix was selected to bind to targets with up to 5% mismatches. To determine the hybridization parameters, the T(m) of probes, targets and hybrids was estimated based on theoretical calculations and in vitro measurements. It was shown that at least 30%, but potentially the majority of the Crenarchaeota present in these samples harboured the amoA gene and were therefore likely to be catalysing the oxidation of ammonia.

Preparation of DNA ladder based on multiplex PCR technique

DNA molecular weight standard control, also called DNA marker (ladder), has been widely used in the experiments of molecular biology. In the paper, we report a method by which DNA marker was prepared based on multiple PCR technique. 100–1000 bp DNA fragments were amplified using the primers designed according to the 6631 ~ 7630 position of lambda DNA. Target DNA fragments were amplified using Touchdown PCR combined with hot start PCR, respectively, followed extracted by phenol/chloroform, precipitated with ethanol and mixed thoroughly. The results showed that the 100–1000 bp DNA fragments were successfully obtained in one PCR reaction, the bands of prepared DNA marker were clear, the size was right and could be used as control in the molecular biology experiment. This method could save time and be more inexpensive, rapid, simple when compared with the current DNA Ladder prepared means.

Nanopore based sequence specific detection of duplex DNA for genomic profiling

We demonstrate a purely electrical method for the single-molecule detection of specific DNA sequences, achieved by hybridizing double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) with peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probes and electrophoretically threading the DNA through sub-5 nm silicon nitride pores. Bis-PNAs were used as the tagging probes in order to achieve high affinity and sequence specificity. Sequence detection is performed by reading the ion current traces of individual translocating DNA molecules, which display a characteristic secondary blockade level, absent in untagged molecules. The potential for barcoding DNA is demonstrated through nanopore analysis of once-tagged and twice-tagged DNA at different locations on the same genomic fragment. Our high-throughput, long-read length method can be used to identify key sequences embedded in individual DNA molecules, without the need for amplification or fluorescent/radio labeling. This opens up a wide range of possibilities in human genomics as well as in pathogen detection for fighting infectious diseases.

PNA-based microbial pathogen identification and resistance marker detection: an accurate, isothermal rapid assay based on genome-specific features

With the rapidly growing availability of the entire genome sequences of microbial pathogens, there is unmet need for increasingly sensitive systems to monitor the gene-specific markers for diagnosis of bacteremia that enables an earlier detection of causative agent and determination of drug resistance. To address these challenges, a novel FISH-type genomic sequence-based molecular technique is proposed that can identify bacteria and simultaneously detect antibiotic resistance markers for rapid and accurate testing of pathogens. The approach is based on a synergistic combination of advanced Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA)-based technology and signal-enhancing Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA) reaction to achieve a highly specific and sensitive assay. A specific PNA-DNA construct serves as an exceedingly selective and very effective biomarker, while RCA enhances detection sensitivity and provide with a highly multiplexed assay system. Distinct-color fluorescent decorator probes are used to identify about 20-nucleotide-long signature sequences in bacterial genomic DNA and/or key genetic markers of drug resistance in order to identify and characterize various pathogens. The technique's potential and its utility for clinical diagnostics are illustrated by identification of S. aureus with simultaneous discrimination of methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) versus methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains. Overall these promising results hint to the adoption of PNA-based rapid sensitive detection for diagnosis of other clinically relevant organisms. Thereby, new assay enables significantly earlier administration of appropriate antimicrobial therapy and may, thus have a positive impact on the outcome of the patient.

Analysis of genes, transcripts, and proteins via DNA ligation

Analytical reactions in which short DNA strands are used in combination with DNA ligases have proven useful for measuring, decoding, and locating most classes of macromolecules. Given the need to accumulate large amounts of precise molecular information from biological systems in research and in diagnostics, ligation reactions will continue to offer valuable strategies for advanced analytical reactions. Here, we provide a basis for further development of methods by reviewing the history of analytical ligation reactions, discussing the properties of ligation reactions that render them suitable for engineering novel assays, describing a wide range of successful ligase-based assays, and briefly considering future directions.

DNA mimics for the rapid identification of microorganisms by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a well-established technique that is used for a variety of purposes, ranging from pathogen detection in clinical diagnostics to the determination of chromosomal stability in stem cell research. The key step of FISH involves the detection of a nucleic acid region and as such, DNA molecules have typically been used to probe for the sequences of interest. However, since the turn of the century, an increasing number of laboratories have started to move on to the more robust DNA mimics methods, most notably peptide and locked nucleic acids (PNA and LNA). In this review, we will cover the state-of-the-art of the different DNA mimics in regard to their application as efficient markers for the presence of individual microbial cells, and consider their potential advantages and pitfalls. Available PNA probes are then reassessed in terms of sensitivity and specificity using rRNA databases. In addition, we also attempt to predict the applicability of DNA mimics in well-known techniques attempting to detect in situ low number of copies of specific nucleic acid sequences such as catalyzed reporter deposition (CARD) and recognition of individual genes (RING) FISH.

Rolling circle amplification: applications in nanotechnology and biodetection with functional nucleic acids

Rolling circle amplification (RCA) is an isothermal, enzymatic process mediated by certain DNA polymerases in which long single-stranded (ss) DNA molecules are synthesized on a short circular ssDNA template by using a single DNA primer. A method traditionally used for ultrasensitive DNA detection in areas of genomics and diagnostics, RCA has been used more recently to generate large-scale DNA templates for the creation of periodic nanoassemblies. Various RCA strategies have also been developed for the production of repetitive sequences of DNA aptamers and DNAzymes as detection platforms for small molecules and proteins. In this way, RCA is rapidly becoming a highly versatile DNA amplification tool with wide-ranging applications in genomics, proteomics, diagnosis, biosensing, drug discovery, and nanotechnology.

Labeling of unique sequences in double-stranded DNA at sites of vicinal nicks generated by nicking endonucleases

We describe a new approach for labeling of unique sequences within dsDNA under nondenaturing conditions. The method is based on the site-specific formation of vicinal nicks, which are created by nicking endonucleases (NEases) at specified DNA sites on the same strand within dsDNA. The oligomeric segment flanked by both nicks is then substituted, in a strand displacement reaction, by an oligonucleotide probe that becomes covalently attached to the target site upon subsequent ligation. Monitoring probe hybridization and ligation reactions by electrophoretic mobility retardation assay, we show that selected target sites can be quantitatively labeled with excellent sequence specificity. In these experiments, predominantly probes carrying a target-independent 3′ terminal sequence were employed. At target labeling, thus a branched DNA structure known as 3′-flap DNA is obtained. The single-stranded terminus in 3′-flap DNA is then utilized to prime the replication of an externally supplied ssDNA circle in a rolling circle amplification (RCA) reaction. In model experiments with samples comprised of genomic λ-DNA and human herpes virus 6 type B (HHV-6B) DNA, we have used our labeling method in combination with surface RCA as reporter system to achieve both high sequence specificity of dsDNA targeting and high sensitivity of detection. The method can find applications in sensitive and specific detection of viral duplex DNA.

Fluorescence-based detection of short DNA sequences under non-denaturing conditions

The ability of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) to open up duplex DNA in a highly sequence-specific manner makes it possible to detect short DNA sequences on the background of or within genomic DNA under non-denaturing conditions. To do so, chosen marker sites in double-stranded DNA are locally opened by a pair of PNA openers, thus transforming one strand within the target region (20-30 bp) into the single-stranded form. Onto this accessible DNA sequence a circular oligonucleotide probe is assembled, which serves as a template for rolling circle amplification (RCA). Both homogeneous and heterogeneous assay formats are investigated, as are different formats for fluorescence-based amplicon detection. Our recent data with immobilized analytes suggest that marker sequences in plasmid and bacterial chromosomal DNA can be successfully detected.