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Labeling DNA Probes

Labeling DNA Probes

DNA probes are fragments of DNA labeled with a reporter tag to enable their detection or purification. The resulting labeled DNA probes can then hybridize to target nucleic acid sequences through complementary base-pairing, and may be used to recover or identify these regions.
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In-situ Hybridization

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In situ hybridization (ISH) is a technique used to detect and localize specific DNA or RNA molecules in cells, tissue, or tissue sections using a labeled probe. The technique was first used in 1969 for the investigation of nucleic acids. It is currently an essential tool in scientific research and clinical settings, especially for diagnostic purposes.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Quantitative, Real-time Analysis of Base Excision Repair Activity in Cell Lysates Utilizing Lesion-specific Molecular Beacons

Quantitative, Real-time Analysis of Base Excision Repair Activity in Cell Lysates Utilizing Lesion-specific Molecular Beacons

Published on: August 6, 2012

Molecular beacons: an optimal multifunctional biological probe.

Yongsheng Li¹, Xiaoyan Zhou, Duyun Ye

¹Department of Pathophysiology, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

|May 21, 2008

Summary

Molecular beacons are highly specific fluorescent probes utilizing fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). This review details their structure, function, and applications in biological research and clinical medicine.

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Area of Science:

Biochemistry
Molecular Biology
Biotechnology

Background:

Molecular beacons are highly specific and sensitive fluorescent probes.
They operate on principles of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and nucleic acid hybridization.
These probes are crucial tools in modern biological and medical research.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide a comprehensive overview of molecular beacon technology.
To discuss the structure, principles, and factors influencing molecular beacon performance.
To review recent advancements in molecular beacon applications.

Main Methods:

The review synthesizes existing literature on molecular beacon technology.
It covers aspects of probe design, labeling strategies, and detection principles.
Applications are examined across various biological and clinical contexts.

Main Results:

Molecular beacons offer precise detection of nucleic acids and interactions.
Their sensitivity and specificity enable real-time monitoring in complex biological systems.
Successful applications include polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA analysis, and clinical diagnostics.

Conclusions:

Molecular beacons are versatile tools with significant potential in diagnostics and research.
Continued development in labeling and application expands their utility.
They play a vital role in advancing molecular diagnostics and biological studies.