Real-time single-molecule nucleic acid sequencing with fluorogenic nucleotides

Harvard University, Cambridge MA

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Capitalizing on our group's experience on single molecule enzymology, we propose a novel method for multiplex sequencing of individual nucleic acid molecules using a sequencing-by-synthesis approach that employs fluorogenic nucleotide substrates. Upon incorporation of a non-fluorescent, terminal phosphate-labeled nucleotide substrate by a polymerase, a fluorogenic polyphosphate molecule is released, and subject to fast enzymatic digestion, yielding a single fluorophore, the color of which is dependent on the identity of the incorporated nucleotide. To facilitate single molecule fluorescence detection, an individual nucleic acid molecule is confined in a sealed sub-femtoliter nanoreactor, in which the sequencing reaction takes place continuously. Using conventional soft lithography, we fabricate an array of nanoreactors that allow simultaneous, real-time monitoring of thousands of isolated sequencing reactions with a fluorescence microscope and CCD camera. Our new approach offers low reagent cost, long read lengths, easy sample preparation, and high throughput at several megabases per minute. We also propose the integration of a massively parallel single molecule fluorogenic sequencer with microfluidic devices that process and deliver genetic material from a single cell. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This project will develop new methods of sequencing DNA at the single molecule level, providing a new path towards human genome sequencing for less than $1000. This ability to economically sequence full genomes will usher in a new era of personalized medicine.