BOC Sciences provides customized nucleotide labeling services catering to both research and diagnostic applications. We offer a range of labeling options designed to meet the specific needs of scientists and clinicians, ensuring accuracy and reliability in experimental results. Our services include the synthesis of labeled nucleotides and oligonucleotides, tailored solutions for high-sensitivity detection, and technical support to optimize labeling strategies.
Labeled nucleotides are a key element of life science research and an effective tool for detecting specific nucleic acid sequences in molecular biological assays. Enzymes can be used to bind to DNA/RNA sequences for sequencing and analysis. Nucleotide markers can be divided into nuclide markers and non-radionuclides, among which the non-radionuclides can be divided into haptens, ligands, fluorescein and chemiluminescence probes. Biotin and fluorescent labels are the most common markers for nucleic acid probes for in situ hybridization, gene expression profiling, or electrophoretic mobility transfer analysis (EMSA) due to their excellent safety, stability, and convenience.
Structures of fluorescent (d)NTPs. (Klöcker, N., 2020)
Labeled nucleotides are an important tool for nucleic acid research and detection, which has a wide range of applications, including DNA sequencing, molecular biology experiments, and clinical diagnosis.
Nucleic acid sequencing: In molecular biology, nucleic acid sequencing (such as Southern and Northern imprinting) is a fundamental technique used to determine the order of DNA or RNA molecules. The primary function of labeled nucleotides in these processes is to act as probes for the detection of nucleic acid molecules that complement the target sequence. Using radioactive or fluorescently labeled nucleotides, the target sequence can be precisely located and quantified. This is of great significance for gene expression analysis, genetic research and disease diagnosis.
The Hi-C technique is used for chromatin conformation capture: Hi-C is an advanced genomic research technique, which realizes the analysis of chromatin three-dimensional structure by labeling nucleotides. Labeled nucleotides are used to form cross-linked structures that capture chromatin conformation. Using this technique, the researchers were able to map the three-dimensional structure of the genome, revealing how genes interact in three-dimensional space. This is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of chromatin in gene regulation, cell differentiation, and cancer development.
In situ hybridization: Labeled nucleotides are widely used in in situ hybridization, including in situ hybridization of colonies, phages, cells and chromosomes. The core of these technologies is the use of labeled probes to detect specific DNA or RNA sequences in a variety of biological materials, such as tissue slices and cell smears. In situ hybridization can show the distribution of target genes or viral genes in cells or tissues, which is very useful for the diagnosis of infectious diseases and the localization of transgenic expression in cancer research.
Gene expression analysis: Gene expression is a key process by which cells monitor and respond to changes in the environment. Labeled nucleotides play an important role in gene expression analysis, especially in cDNA microarrays and RNA sequencing techniques. Using labeled nucleotides, researchers can quantitatively analyze gene expression patterns in cells under a variety of conditions. This provides an important tool for revealing the mechanism of functional change in cells and the molecular basis of disease.
Pathogenic pathogen detection: In clinical microbiology, labeled nucleotides are used for the rapid detection of pathogens. For example, in PCR technology, labeled probes can specifically detect the nucleic acid sequence of the target pathogen, enabling rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases. Such techniques are particularly important during disease outbreaks, as they can help quickly identify and control the source of the disease.
Genetic disease and tumor diagnosis: Genetic diseases and tumors are often associated with specific mutations in the genome. Labeled nucleotide technology can be used to detect these mutations to help diagnose and predict disease risk. For example, with fluorescently labeled molecular probes, doctors can scan suspected gene regions to identify tiny gene deletions or duplications.
Fluorescent labeled nucleotides: Fluorescent labeling is a common nucleotide labeling method, by introducing fluorophores into nucleotide molecules, researchers can achieve real-time tracking and quantification of target molecules without destroying or changing the molecular structure. This technique is widely used in real-time PCR, gene expression analysis, RNA sequencing, immunohistochemistry, etc. Common fluorescent labels include FITC, Cy3, Cy5, Alexa Fluor, etc.
Biotin labeled nucleotides: Biotinization is a popular labeling technique that allows efficient separation and purification of labeled molecules by binding with streptavidin. Biotin-labeled nucleotides are very effective in molecular cloning, PCR product analysis, and other enzymatic reactions, and provide a powerful means of detection and fixation of unlabeled DNA.
Chemiluminescent labeling of nucleotides: Chemiluminescent labeling uses light generated by chemical reactions to detect nucleotide molecules. Due to the absence of external light source, low background noise, high sensitivity and high specificity, this labeling method has been applied in many medical diagnosis and life science research.
Enzyme-labeled nucleotides: Enzyme-labeled nucleotides utilize a specific binding reaction between an enzyme and a substrate to label DNA or RNA and react with the appropriate substrate to produce an easy-to-detect signal. It is widely used in immunoassay techniques such as ELISA.
Photolabeled nucleotides: Nucleotides are labeled using photosensitive compounds that can trigger structural changes or fluorescence emission after exposure to specific wavelengths of light. This specificity is used to study dynamic processes, providing special experimental cues in response to different light.
Hapten-labeled nucleotides: Haptens are small molecules that can bind to specific antibodies. These labeled nucleotides are often used in diagnostic applications and immunoassays, where precise targeting and detection are required.
Custom nucleotide labeling services: At BOC Sciences, we offer tailored services to customize the labeling ratio, dye selection, and other parameters based on your specific experimental requirements.
Reliability and consistency: With years of experience in the industry, we provide consistent, high-quality labeled nucleotides that you can trust for accurate results.
Expertise and support: Our team of biochemists and molecular biologists is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns, ensuring that you receive the best possible service and advice for your experiments.
Customization and flexibility: We understand the specific requirements of different research projects and offer tailored labeling solutions to meet your needs.
Timely delivery: We offer fast turnaround times and efficient delivery options, ensuring that you receive your labeled nucleotides when you need them.
1. What is a nucleotide label?
Nucleotide labeling refers to the introduction of labels such as specific chemical groups or fluorescent dyes into DNA or RNA molecules to facilitate detection, tracking, or analysis of their behavior during biological processes. This method is widely used in molecular biology, genomics and cell research.
2. What are fluorescent-labeled nucleotides?
Fluorescent-labeled nucleotides are nucleotides tagged with a fluorescent dye, which allows them to be detected and quantified using fluorescence-based techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microarrays. Common fluorescent labels include FITC, CY3, and CY5, and they enable high-sensitivity detection in complex assays.
3. How are nucleotides labeled?
Nucleotides can be labeled using various methods, such as chemical modification, enzymatic incorporation, or photochemical labeling. These techniques attach tags (biotin, fluorescent dyes, or haptens) to nucleotides, allowing their detection in downstream applications. The choice of labeling method depends on the specific experiment and desired outcome.
4. How do you choose the right type of labeled nucleotide?
The choice depends on the experimental requirements. For example, fluorescent labels are ideal for real-time PCR and fluorescence microscopy, while biotin-labeled nucleotides are used for applications requiring binding interactions (e.g., streptavidin-biotin assays). It's important to consider factors like sensitivity, detection method, and application.
5. Will the labeled nucleotides affect the experimental results?
Generally, labeled nucleotides do not significantly affect their biological activity, especially in applications such as gene amplification and probe hybridization. However, the chemical reaction conditions during the labeling process may affect the stability or activity of nucleotides. It is very important to choose appropriate labeling methods and conditions, and we can provide suggestions based on specific needs.
6. How to store labeled nucleotides?
Labeled nucleotides should be stored at low temperatures (usually -20 °C or lower), avoiding light and repeated freeze-thawing. Fluorescently labeled and radiolabelled nucleotides in particular need protection from exposure to high temperatures and ultraviolet light.
7. How to determine the purity of labeled nucleotides?
We supply high purity labeled nucleotides and can provide corresponding quality control reports. All products undergo strict quality testing to ensure compliance with experimental requirements.
8. How can I get help if I'm not sure which marking method is right for me?
If you are not sure how to choose the appropriate marking method, please contact our technical support team. We will provide professional advice based on your experimental needs, objectives and equipment conditions to help you choose the most appropriate marking scheme.
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