Molecular beacons: A novel DNA probe for nucleic acid and protein studies

A new concept has been introduced for molecular beacon DNA molecules. Molec ular beacons are a new class of oligonucleotides that can report the presen ce of specific nucleic acids in both homogeneous solutions and at the liqui d-solid interface. They emit an intense fluorescent signal only when hybrid ized to their target DNA or RNA molecules. Biotinylated molecular beacons h ave been designed and used for the development of ultrasensitive DNA sensor s and for DNA molecular interaction studies at a solid - liquid interface. Molecular beacons have also been used to study protein DNA interactions. Th ey have provided a variety of exciting opportunities in DNA/RNA/protein stu dies.