Method for Optical Imaging a Target Molecule in a Sample, a Protein-Oligonuleotide Conjugate for Use in the Method and a Kit for Carrying Out the Method

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method for optical imaging of target molecules using a pair of non-naturally occurring oligonucleotides—such as left-handed DNA (L-DNA)—where one strand (adapter/docking) is attached to a target and the complementary strand (imager) carries a dye. Because the oligonucleotides do not occur naturally, the imager only binds to the intended adapter, greatly reducing background noise commonly caused by unintended binding to natural nucleic acids in biological samples. The patent also covers protein-oligonucleotide conjugates (e.g., antibody-oligo complexes) and kits to enable this labeling and imaging technique.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Super-resolution fluorescence imaging in cell biology and molecular biology research.
• Multiplexed imaging of different proteins or biomolecules within cells and tissues.
• Diagnostic assays for detecting low abundance target proteins or nucleic acids in complex biological samples.
• High-throughput screening applications for drug discovery or biomarker research.
• Quantitative measurement and localization of biomolecules in basic and clinical research.
• Imaging targets within the cell nucleus without interference from endogenous DNA.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Dramatically reduced background fluorescence and false positives due to specificity of non-natural oligonucleotides.
• Enables highly specific, high-resolution imaging (including super-resolution) in complex biological samples.
• Compatible with multiplexed imaging—potentially allowing hundreds of targets to be visualized with a single fluorophore through sequence programmability.
• Improved sensitivity for detecting low-abundance targets due to low noise and high specificity.
• Streamlines workflow by reducing the need for expensive equipment or extensive post-imaging processing.
• Allows for precise quantification and localization of biomolecules in their native environments.
• Works with standard fluorescence microscopy hardware, not requiring specialized super-resolution microscopes.

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Patent Abstract

The invention concerns a method for optical imaging by delivery of a dye via a base-pairing mechanism, wherein a first strand being delivered to a target structure, and a complimentary second strand carrying a dye molecule. According to the invention the two pairing strands comprises non-naturally occurring oligonucleotide.