Enzo Awarded Patent For Phosphate Labeling For DNA Diagnostic And Medical Research Products

Farmingdale, NY - Enzo Biochem, Inc. announced that its subsidiary, Enzo Life Sciences, Inc., has been granted U.S. Patent No. 6,992,180, entitled "Oligo-or polynucleotides comprising phosphate-moiety labeled nucleotides," describing techniques applicable to a wide variety of DNA diagnostic and medical research products.

The issued patent, among other aspects, covers nucleic acid labeling molecules that are attached through the phosphate portion of the nucleic acid, either directly or indirectly. Such technology can be applied to a range of commercial products, some of which are currently used for both diagnostics and research. DNA diagnostic testing is a rapidly growing area of molecular medicine using gene identification for diagnostic and prognostic applications. It is estimated that the current annual market for gene-based testing ranges from $500 million to as high as $1 billion.

Among the labeling elements covered by this patent are fluorescent, chemiluminescent, and chemical molecules, including biotin. These are the labeling components most commonly used in medical research and diagnostic products.

The use of the phosphate portion of the nucleic acid as the site of the label provides a number of benefits. The chemistry for attachment can be done easily and cost-effectively. Placement of the label at this site allows DNA probe hybridization to be measured while the molecule is being replicated. In addition this technology can be used with a variety of labeling molecules, making it an extremely versatile methodology for DNA diagnostic testing.

SOURCE: Enzo Biochem, Inc.