Sperm cell purification from mock forensic swabs using SOMAmer™ affinity reagents.

We have demonstrated a proof of concept with affinity-based purification of sperm cells from mock forensic samples using SOMAmer™ reagents, DNA-based affinity reagents developed by SomaLogic, Inc. SOMAmer reagents were selected in vitro using whole-cell SELEX to bind specifically with intact, detergent-treated sperm cells. Successful separation of sperm from epithelial cells and their debris was demonstrated using buccal swabs with added semen.

Increasing hybridization rate and sensitivity of bead-based assays using isotachophoresis.

We present an electrokinetic technique to increase the reaction rate and sensitivity of bead-based assays. We use isotachophoresis (ITP) to preconcentrate and co-focus target molecules and beads into a single ITP zone. The process achieves rapid mixing, stirring, and strongly increases the binding reaction rate.

From SOMAmer-based biomarker discovery to diagnostic and clinical applications: a SOMAmer-based, streamlined multiplex proteomic assay.

Recently, we reported a SOMAmer-based, highly multiplexed assay for the purpose of biomarker identification. To enable seamless transition from highly multiplexed biomarker discovery assays to a format suitable and convenient for diagnostic and life-science applications, we developed a streamlined, plate-based version of the assay. The plate-based version of the assay is robust, sensitive (sub-picomolar), rapid, can be highly multiplexed (upwards of 60 analytes), and fully automated.

Reconstitution of the B. subtilis replisome with 13 proteins including two distinct replicases.

We have expressed and purified 13 proteins predicted to be required for B. subtilis DNA replication. When combined with a circular DNA template with a 5' unpaired flap, these proteins reconstitute replication of both the leading and lagging strands at the physiological rate.

Nutritional control of elongation of DNA replication by (p)ppGpp.

DNA replication is highly regulated in most organisms. Although much research has focused on mechanisms that regulate initiation of replication, mechanisms that regulate elongation of replication are less well understood. We characterized a mechanism that regulates replication elongation in the bacterium Bacillus subtilis.