hide
Free keywords:
Triple-helix formation; C-src protooncogene; Real-time detection; Mycobacterium-tuberculosis; Antisense therapeutics; Multiplex detection; Promoter region; Living cells; DNA; Probes
Abstract:
Molecular beacons (MBs) are a novel class of nucleic acid probes that become fluorescent when bound to a complementary sequence. Because of this characteristic, coupled with the sequence specificity of nucleic acid hybridization and the sensitivity of fluorescence techniques, MBs are very useful probes for a variety of applications requiring the detection of DNA or RNA. We survey various applications of MBs, including the monitoring of DNA triplex formation, and describe recent developments in MB design that enhance their sensitivity.
