| abstract |
An element has been prepared which is useful for the detection of nucleic acids in various formats. The element has a sealable support on which is disposed a nucleic acid reagent composition. The composition is a mixture of a nucleic acid reagent composed of polymeric particles to which an oligonucleotide is covalently attached. The particles are prepared from a first polymer having a glass transition temperature of at least about 70 DEG C. and have an average diameter of from about 0.1 to about 3 micrometers. The reagent is adhered to the support using a water insoluble adhesive comprising a second polymer which has a glass transition temperature which is at least about 30 DEG C. less than the glass transition temperature of the first polymer. The adhesive is present in the composition at from about 1 to about 20 weight percent. This element provides high sensitivity and low background in hybridization and other nucleic acid assays. |