| abstract |
A DNA sequencing process using specific stable isotopes associated with specific terminators for labels. The process includes a step of incorporating a stable isotope in at least one of the deoxynucleoside triphosphates and/or the dideoxynucleoside triphosphates such that a terminated strand has included within it or at the end a stable isotope such as an isotope of sulphur. Replicated strands are then separated by performing gel electrophoresis thereon. The location of the DNA strand with the stable isotope assigned to a terminator is analyzed preferably by resonance ionization spectroscopy. The stable isotopes can be chosen such that specific labels are assigned to at least one, and preferably to each base, in the dideoxynucleoside triphosphates. In the preferred embodiment, each of the bases (A, T, G and C) are associated with a specific stable isotopic label, and can be analyzed in a single track which enhances the accuracy of the sequencing process. |