Synthesis and characterization of 5'-fluorescent-dye-labeled oligonucleotides

Fluorescent-dye-labeled oligonucleotides are used in many procedures, including DNA sequencing, PCR, restriction mapping, the study of genetic disease, and forensics identification. In this paper, we describe detailed methods for the synthesis, purification, and quantification of 5'-fluorescent-dye-labeled oligonucleotides. The relationship of specific and nonspecific dye attachment to synthetic oligonucleotides is discussed, and the importance of primer design is considered as a way to prevent chemical problems from interfering with biological reactions.