| abstract |
A method for detecting mutations, such as a single base change or an addition or deletion of about one to four base pairs, is based on the use of a DNA mismatch-binding protein, such as MutS, which binds to a nucleic acid hybrid having a single base mismatch or unpaired base or bases, thereby allowing the detection of mutations involving as little as one base change in a nucleotide sequence. Such a method is useful for diagnosing a variety of important disease states or susceptibilities, for example, detecting the presence of a mutated oncogen. The method shares the efficiency advantages of PCR-based methods but is much simpler and cheaper to perform. Also provided is a kit useful for practicing the method of the present invention. |