Abstract
Molecular beacons are oligonucleotide probes that become fluorescent upon hybridization. We designed molecular beacons to detect a point mutation in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, a mutation that has been related to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and neural tube defects. The application of molecular beacons enables fast, semiautomated, accurate mutation detection. Moreover, the procedure is performed in a closed tube system, thereby avoiding carryover contamination. We believe these probes will find their way into nucleic acid research and diagnostics.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Automation
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Cardiovascular Diseases / epidemiology
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Cardiovascular Diseases / genetics
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Child
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DNA / blood*
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DNA Mutational Analysis / methods*
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DNA Primers
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Humans
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In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence / methods
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Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2)
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Neural Tube Defects / epidemiology
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Neural Tube Defects / genetics
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Oligonucleotide Probes*
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Oxidoreductases Acting on CH-NH Group Donors / genetics*
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Point Mutation*
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Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods
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Risk Factors
Substances
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DNA Primers
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Oligonucleotide Probes
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DNA
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Oxidoreductases Acting on CH-NH Group Donors
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Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2)