Immobilized sequence-specific probes

Abstract From the Canadian patent

An improved nucleic acid hybridization assay reagent capable of binding a nucleic, acid having a selected target sequence comprises a solid support matrix having oligonucleotide probes covalently attached thereto via a spacer arm. In a preferred, embodiment, the solid support has reactive amino groups capable of binding UV irradiated, nucleotides in an oligonucleotide probe which probe comprises a hybridizing , region complementary to a target sequence to be detected and a linking tail the tail , being, composed of nucleotides one or more of which is covalently bonded to the reactive groups, of said support.