| abstract |
Sequencing methods and methods for synthesizing DNA probes using mutant bacteriophage T4 DNA polymerases which have increased ability to incorporate modified nucleotides for the synthesis of long or short chains of complementary, modified, e.g., fluorophore-labeled DNA. In general, the mutant T4 DNA polymerases retain 3'5' exonuclease activity; hence, reduction or elimination of 3'5' exonuclease activity is not a prerequisite for efficient synthesis of a complementary fluorophore-labeled or other modified DNA. In fact, retention of 3'5' exonuclease activity increases accuracy of DNA replication, because these exonucleases proofread or edit the product of DNA replication. |