Scorpion probes, specific DNA probe sequences maintained in a hairpin–loop, can be modified to carry the components of an exciplex for use as a novel fluorescence-based method for specific detection of DNA. The exciplex partners (5′-pyrenyl and 3′-naphthalenyl) were attached to oligonucleotides via phosphoramidate links to terminal phosphate groups. Hybridization of the probe to a complementary target in a buffer containing trifluoroethanol produced an obvious fluorescence change from blue (pyrene locally excited state emission) to green (exciplex emission).
© The Authors Journal compilation © 2008 Biochemical Society
2008
You do not currently have access to this content.