Directegen

Directegen is a tool used in molecular biology for the direct, quantitative detection of genetic material. It combines DNA amplification with direct sequencing, allowing for the rapid identification and characterization of genetic material.

The technology is based on a single-tube reaction that incorporates a proprietary conjugate and a sequencing primer. The conjugate consists of an oligonucleotide linked to a fluorescent label, which is complementary to a specific sequence of the target DNA. The sequencing primer is designed to initiate DNA synthesis at a specific position on the target sequence.

When the directegen reaction is carried out, the conjugate molecule binds to its complementary sequence on the target DNA, and the sequencing primer begins to synthesize a new strand of DNA. As the DNA strand is synthesized, fragments of varying lengths are generated, each corresponding to a distinct position on the target sequence.

The reaction products are then subjected to electrophoresis, which separates the fragments based on size. The resulting fragments are detected using fluorescence, and the intensity and length of the signals are correlated to the sequence of the target DNA.

Directegen has been used in a range of applications, including colony screening, mutation detection, and research into gene expression. The technology allows for rapid and sensitive detection of genetic material, making it useful in various fields such as biotechnology and life sciences research. Its ability to quantify the sequence of genetic material has also made it a valuable tool for analysing genetic variation and expression.