AMPLIFIED multiplexed analysis of DNA by the exonuclease iii-catalyzed regeneration of the target dna in the presence of functionalized semiconductor quantum dots

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs) functionalized with a black-hole quencher are used as optical tracer for the detection of DNA using exonuclease as a biocatalyst. The binding of the target DNA or of a target/open hairpin complex to the functionalized QDs leads to the exonuclease-stimulated recycling of the target DNA or the target/hairpin complex. This results in the triggering of the luminescence of the QDs that provides a readout signal for the amplified sensing process. By using different-sized QDs, the multiplexed detection of DNAs is demonstrated. © 2011 American Chemical Society.