GSJ:Received May 18, 2005: http://wbabin.net/saba/saba40.htm

Herein are described apparently novel methods of utilizing microarrays and RCA in the detection and analysis of target nucleic acids. Self explanatory Figure 1 exemplifies one preferred embodiment, wherein a target nucleic acid is being detected.

Importantly, notice the method can be a homogeneous, one-step process. Alternatively, hybridizations need not be done simultaneously. For example the target and RCA template, or target and microarrayed probe, could be hybridized first. Also notice the similarity of this method to the recently disclosed immunoassays utilizing RCA (1) Self explanatory Figure 2 exemplifies another preferred embodiment wherein we are utilizing ligation-mediated RCA template formation in the analysis of nucleotide polymorphisms.

As in Figure 1, hybridizations need not be in the order shown. Of course substrates other than a biochip can be utilized, for example encoded particles. Indeed, a support is not even required as shown in Figure 3.

Also, nucleic acid amplifications other than RCA which result in a spatially localized product (2) could be used. This invention, as most of my inventions described in this journal, is at the conceptual stage and a patent application is anticipated. However, it is hoped that those with laboratories will investigate its full potential. Several modifications of the above examples can be envisioned, and the following provisional claims attempt to encompass just some of the important features of the invention.

Provisional Claims