An aptamer is an oligonucleotide that specifically and reversibly binds an enzyme, influencing its activity. DNA polymerase enzyme synthesizes DNA. The benefits of adding aptamer to DNA polymerase include: Hot Start PCR compatibility, polymerase stability when in complex with aptamer, and protection against harmful environmental conditions. However, the underlying mechanisms that account for these properties are not well understood. Through the development of a proteinase K challenge experiment, this project determined the location of aptamer binding on DNA polymerase and its functional implications.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Wisheart, Danielle Catherine

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-043014-135049

Advisor

• Heilman, Destin

Year

• 2013

Sponsor

• Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.

Date created

• 2013-04-30

Location

• Neshanic Station

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright