A Quantitative Analytical Tool for Producing DNA-Based Diagnostic Arrays

50476-98-I A Quantitative Analytical Tool for Producing DNA-Based Diagnostic Arrays--Atom Sciences, Inc., 114 Ridgeway Center, Oak Ridge, TN 37830-6926; (423) 483-1113 Dr. Tom J. Whitaker, Principal Investigator Dr. Tom J. Whitaker, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82536 Amount: $74,993 Oligonucleotide sequencing arrays, or ¿gene chips,¿ offer miniaturization and shorter analysis times for genetic diagnostics, sequencing DNAs, and partial sequencing of clones to allow mapping. However, the difficulty of applying quality control steps has hampered the full acceptance of these arrays. Development of a high-resolution, quantitative method to analyze the oligonucleotides (ODNs) on the array would allow a systematic approach to the quality control issue. The purpose of this project is to develop and demonstrate such a method using tin-labeled ODNs and ion sputtering followed by resonance ionization mass spectrometry. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of using the analytical technique to quantitatively analyze bound ODNs. Arrays will be prepared using immobilization chemistry and in situ synthesis, a calibration method will be developed, and ODNs will be quantitatively analyzed on the arrays. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The resulting analytical capability would directly benefit sequencing array manufacturers by allowing them to improve their product in a systematic, controlled fashion. An analytical service will be provided to these manufacturing companies as a quality control for production._