Nucleic acid amplification

[0001] The disclosed invention is generally in the field of nucleic acid amplification.

[0002] A number of methods have been developed for exponential amplification of nucleic acids. These include the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), ligase chain reaction (LCR), self-sustained sequence replication (3SR), nucleic acid sequence based amplification (NASBA), strand displacement amplification (SDA), and amplification with Q replicase (Birkenmeyer and Mushahwar, J. Virological Methods, 35:117-126 (1991); Landegren, Trends Genetics 9:199-202 (1993)).

[0003] Fundamental to most genetic analysis is availability of genomic DNA of adequate quality and quantity. Since DNA yield from human samples is frequently limiting, much effort has been invested in general methods for propagating and archiving genomic DNA. Methods include the creation of EBV-transformed cell lines or whole genome amplification (WGA) by random or degenerate oligonucleotide-primed PCR. Whole genome PCR, a variant of PCR amplification, involves the use of random or partially random primers to amplify the entire genome of an organism in the same PCR reaction. This technique relies on having a sufficient number of primers of random or partially random sequence such that pairs of primers will hybridize throughout the genomic DNA at moderate intervals. Replication initiated at the primers can then result in replicated strands overlapping sites where another primer can hybridize. By subjecting the genomic sample to multiple amplification cycles, the genomic sequences will be amplified. PCR based WGA methods and EBV-transformed cell lines suffer from high cost or insufficient coverage and inadequate average DNA size (Telenius et al., Genomics. 13:718-725 (1992); Cheung and Nelson, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 93:14676-14679 (1996); Zhang et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 89:5847-5851 (1992)).

[0004] Another form of nucleic acid amplification, involving strand displacement, has been described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,120 to Lizardi. In one form of the method, two sets of primers are used that are complementary to opposite strands of nucleotide sequences flanking a target sequence. Amplification proceeds by replication initiated at each primer and continuing through the target nucleic acid sequence, with the growing strands encountering and displacing previously replicated strands. In another form of the method a random set of primers is used to randomly prime a sample of genomic nucleic acid. The primers in the set are collectively, and randomly, complementary to nucleic acid sequences distributed throughout nucleic acid in the sample. Amplification proceeds by replication initiating at each primer and continuing so that the growing strands encounter and displace adjacent replicated strands. In another form of the method concatenated DNA is amplified by strand displacement synthesis with either a random set of primers or primers complementary to linker sequences between the concatenated DNA. Synthesis proceeds from the linkers, through a section of the concatenated DNA to the next linker, and continues beyond, with the growing strands encountering and displacing previously replicated strands.

[0005] Disclosed are compositions and a method for amplification of nucleic acid sequences of interest. The method is based on strand displacement replication of the nucleic acid sequences by primers. The disclosed method is a form of multiple displacement amplification (MDA) useful for amplifying genomic nucleic acid samples and other nucleic acid samples of high complexity. The disclosed method can be used to amplify such highly complex nucleic acid samples using only one or a limited number of primers. It has been discovered that one or a small number of primers can effectively amplify whole genomes and other nucleic acid samples of high sequence complexity. The primers are specially selected or designed to be able to prime and efficiently amplify the broad range of sequences present in highly complex nucleic acid samples despite the limited amount of primer sequence represented in the primers. The disclosed method generally involves bringing into contact one, a few, or more primers having specific nucleic acid sequences, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules results in replicated strands such that, during replication, the replicated strands are displaced from the nucleic acid molecules by strand displacement replication of another replicated strand. The replication can result in amplification of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. In one form of the disclosed method, which is a form of whole genome strand displacement amplification (WGSDA), one, a few, or more primers are used to prime a sample of genomic nucleic acid (or another sample of nucleic acid of high complexity).

[0006] It was discovered that highly complex nucleic acid samples can be efficiently amplified using only one or a few primers having specific nucleic acid sequences. The one or few primers are complementary to nucleic acid sequences distributed throughout nucleic acid molecules in the sample. For example, a single 6 base primer will be complementary to a sequence once every 4096 nucleotides, on average, and two 6 base primers collectively will be complementary to a sequence once every 2048 nucleotides, on average. It was discovered that such distributions of priming sites were sufficient to allow efficient multiple displacement amplification. It was also discovered that such distributions of priming sites result in amplification of nucleic acid samples with broad coverage of the sequences in the nucleic acid samples and in amplification products with high sequence and locus representation and low amplification bias. Thus, the disclosed method can result in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample.

[0007] Amplification in the disclosed method proceeds by replication with a highly processive polymerase initiating at each primer and continuing until spontaneous termination. A key feature of the method is that as a DNA polymerase extends a primer, the polymerase displaces the replication products (that is, DNA strands) that resulted from extension of other primers. The polymerase is continuously extending new primers and displacing the replication products of previous priming events. In this way, multiple overlapping copies of all of the nucleic acid molecules and sequences in the sample (for example, an entire genome) can be synthesized in a short time. The method has advantages over prior amplification methods in that many fewer primers can be used. Further, the primers need not have a sequence specific for a given nucleic acid sample. Rather, the same primer or primers can be used to amplify a nucleic acid sample having unknown sequence. For example, a single primer as disclosed herein can be used to efficiently amplify any whole genome from any source, an entire cosmid library, artificial chromosomes, and so on, all without the need to know any sequence present in the sample.

[0008] The disclosed method can accurately and evenly amplify the various sequences in highly complex nucleic acid samples. This result can be quantified by references to, for example sequence representation, locus representation and amplification bias. For example, the replicated nucleic acid molecules produced in the disclosed method can have a sequence representation of at least 50% for at least 10 different target sequences. The amplification bias can be less than 10% for at least 10 different target sequences.

[0009] The method has advantages over the polymerase chain reaction since it can be carried out under isothermal conditions. Other advantages of whole genome strand displacement amplification include a higher level of amplification than whole genome PCR (up to five times higher), amplification is less sequence-dependent than PCR, and there are no re-annealing artifacts or gene shuffling artifacts as can occur with PCR (since there are no cycles of denaturation and re-annealing).

[0010] In some useful embodiments of WGSDA, the nucleic acid sample is not subjected to denaturing conditions, the primers are hexamer primers and contain modified nucleotides such that the primers are nuclease resistant, the DNA polymerase is 29 DNA polymerase, or any combination of these features. The genome can be any type of genome, such as a microbial genome, a viral genome, a eukayotic genome, a plant genome, an animal genome, a vertebrate genome, a mammalian genome, or a human genome.

[0011] In one embodiment of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample is not subjected to denaturing conditions. Nucleic acid molecules, genomic DNA, for example, need not be denatured for efficient multiple displacement amplification. Elimination of a denaturation step and denaturation conditions has additional advantages such as reducing sequence bias in the amplified products.

[0012] In another embodiment, the primers can be, for example, at least 8 bases long, at least 7 bases long, at least 6 bases long, 5 bases long, 4 bases long, at least 3 bases long, or at least 2 bases long. Such short primers can still prime multiple strand displacement replication efficiently. Such short primers are easier and less expensive to produce. The primers can have any sequence or can have particular sequences. For example, shorter primers, such as 6 nucleotide primers, will have complements in the nucleic acid sample at sufficiently short intervals to allow efficient and even amplification. Longer primers for use in the disclosed method generally will benefit from having sequences that are complementary to specific sequences that occur at intervals throughout the nucleic acid sample. For example, the primers can be complementary to sequence in a repeat sequence, such as a microsatellite sequence, a minisatellite sequence, a satellite sequence, a transposon sequence, a ribosomal RNA sequence, a short interspersed nuclear element (SINE), or a long interspersed nuclear element (LINE); a functional consensus sequence such as a promoter sequence, an enhancer sequence, a silencer sequence, an upstream regulatory element sequence, a transcription termination site sequence, a transposon regulatory sequence, a ribosomal RNA regulatory sequence, or a polyadenylation site sequence. Shorter primers can also includes such repeated sequences. When using repeated sequences in primers, more primers can be used in the reaction to improve the distribution of primer complement sequences in the nucleic acid sample. In particular, where some or all of the repeated sequences have uneven distributions in the nucleic acids of the nucleic acid sample, multiple primers complementary to different repeated sequences can be used.

[0013] In another embodiment, the primers can each contain at least one modified nucleotide such that the primers are nuclease resistant. In another embodiment, the primers can each contain at least one modified nucleotide such that the melting temperature of the primer is altered relative to a primer of the same sequence without the modified nucleotide(s). For these last two embodiments, it is preferred that the primers are modified RNA. In another embodiment, the DNA polymerase can be 29 DNA polymerase, or another suitable DNA polymerase. 29 DNA polymerase produces greater amplification in multiple displacement amplification. The combination of two or more of the above features also yields improved results in multiple displacement amplification. In a preferred embodiment, for example, the nucleic acid sample is not subjected to denaturing conditions, the primers are 6 base primers and contain modified nucleotides such that the primers are nuclease resistant, and the DNA polymerase is 29 DNA polymerase. The above features are especially useful in whole genome strand displacement amplification (WGSDA).

[0014] Following amplification, the amplified sequences can be used for any purpose, such as uses known and established for PCR amplified sequences. For example, amplified sequences can be detected using any of the conventional detection systems for nucleic acids such as detection of fluorescent labels, enzyme-linked detection systems, antibody-mediated label detection, and detection of radioactive labels. One form of labeling involves labeling of the replicated strands (that is, the strands produced in multiple displacement amplification) using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase. The replicated strands can be labeled by, for example, the addition of modified nucleotides, such as biotinylated nucleotides, fluorescent nucleotides, 5 methyl dCTP, BrdUTP, or 5-(3-aminoallyl)-2-deoxyuridine 5-triphosphates, to the 3 ends of the replicated strands. The replicated strands can also be labeled and/or detected using fluorescent change probes and/or primers.

[0015] In the disclosed method amplification takes place not in cycles, but in a continuous, isothermal replication. This makes amplification less complicated and much more consistent in output. Strand displacement allows rapid generation of multiple copies of a nucleic acid sequence or sample in a single, continuous, isothermal reaction. DNA that has been produced using the disclosed method can then be used for any purpose or in any other method desired. For example, PCR can be used to further amplify any specific DNA sequence that has been previously amplified by the disclosed strand displacement method.

[0016] Genetic analysis must frequently be carried out with DNA derived from biological samples, such as blood, tissue culture cells, buccal swabs, mouthwash, stool, tissues slices, biopsy aspiration, and archeological samples such as bone or mummified tissue. In some cases, the samples are too small to extract a sufficient amount of pure DNA and it is necessary to carry out DNA-based assays directly from the unprocessed sample. Furthermore, it is time consuming to isolate pure DNA, and so the disclosed method, which can amplify the genome directly from biological samples, is particularly useful.

[0017] The disclosed method has several distinct advantages over other methodologies. The genome can be amplified directly from whole blood or cultured cells with simple cell lysis techniques such as KOH treatment. PCR and other DNA amplification methods are severely inhibited by cellular contents and so purification of DNA is needed prior to amplification and assay. For example, heme present in lysed blood cells inhibits PCR. In contrast, the disclosed form of whole genome amplification can be carried out on crude lysates with no need to physically separate DNA by miniprep extraction and precipitation procedures, or with column or spin cartridge methods.

[0018] Bacteria, fungi, and viruses may all be involved in nosocomial infections. Identification of nosocomial pathogens at the sub-species level requires sophisticated discriminatory techniques. Such techniques utilize traditional as well as molecular methods for typing. Some traditional techniques are antimicrobial susceptibility testing, determination of the ability to utilize biochemical substrates, and serotyping. A major limitation of these techniques is that they take several days to complete, since they require pure bacterial cultures. Because such techniques are long, and the bacteria may even be non-viable in the clinical samples, there is a need to have a quick and reliable method for bacterial species identification.

[0019] Some of the DNA-based molecular methods for the identification of bacterial species are macrorestriction analysis (MRA) followed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis, and arbitrarily primed PCR (AP-PCR) (Tenover et al., J. Clin. Microbiol. 32:407-415 (1994), and Pruckler et al., J. Clin. Microbiol. 33:2872-2875 (1995)). These molecular techniques are labor-intensive and difficult to standardize among different laboratories.

[0020] The disclosed method provides a useful alternative method for the identification of bacterial strains by amplification of microbial DNA for analysis. Unlike PCR (Lantz et al., Biotechnol. Annu. Rev. 5:87-130 (2000)), the disclosed method is rapid, non-biased, reproducible, and capable of amplifying large DNA segments from bacterial, viral or fungal genomes.

[0021] The disclosed method can be used, for example, to obtain enough DNA from unculturable organisms for sequencing or other studies. Most microorganisms cannot be propagated outside their native environment, and therefore their nucleic acids cannot be sequenced. Many unculturable organisms live under extreme conditions, which makes their genetic complement of interest to investigators. Other microorganisms live in communities that play a vital role in certain ecosystems. Individual organisms or entire communities of organisms can be amplified and sequenced, individually or together.

[0022] Recombinant proteins may be purified from a large biomass grown up from bacterial or yeast strains harboring desired expression vectors. A high degree of purity may be desired for the isolated recombinant protein, requiring a sensitive procedure for the detection of trace levels of protein or DNA contaminants. The disclosed method is a DNA amplification reaction that is highly robust even in the presence of low levels of DNA template, and can be used to monitor preparations of recombinant protein for trace amounts of contaminating bacterial or yeast genomic DNA.

[0023] Amplification of forensic material for RFLP-based testing is one useful application for the disclosed method.

[0024] It is an object of the disclosed invention to provide a method of amplifying an entire genome or other highly complex nucleic acid sample in a continuous, isothermal reaction.

[0025] It is another object of the disclosed invention to provide a kit for amplifying an entire genome or other highly complex nucleic acid sample in a continuous, isothermal reaction.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using a single six nucleotide primer of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using two different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using three different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using four different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using five different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using five different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0032] FIG. 7 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using five different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0033] FIG. 8 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using five different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0034] FIG. 9 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 10 genetic loci in human genomic DNA amplified using nine different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0035] FIG. 10 is a graph of the locus representation (in percent) for 47 genetic loci (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome) in human genomic DNA amplified using twelve different six nucleotide primers of specific nucleotide sequence in an embodiment of the disclosed method.

[0036] The disclosed method makes use of certain materials and procedures which allow amplification of nucleic acid sequences and whole genomes or other highly complex nucleic acid samples. These materials and procedures are described in detail below.

[0037] A. Nucleic Acid Samples

[0038] Nucleic acid molecules, which are the object of amplification, can be any nucleic acid from any source. In general, the disclosed method is performed using a nucleic acid sample that contains (or is suspected of containing) nucleic acid molecules to be amplified. For whole genome amplification, the nucleic acid sample generally is all or a substantial portion of an entire genome. As used herein, a substantial portion of a genome refers to the presence of 90% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. A nucleic acid sample or genomic nucleic acid sample including or comprising a substantial portion of a genome refers to a nucleic acid sample including 90% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. A genomic nucleic acid sample refers to any nucleic acid sample derived from genomic nucleic acids and including or comprising a notable portion of the entire genome. As used herein, a notable portion of a genome refers to the presence of 20% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. A nucleic acid sample or genomic nucleic acid sample including or comprising a notable portion of a genome refers to a nucleic acid sample including 20% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. As used herein, a significant portion of a genome refers to the presence of 50% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. A nucleic acid sample or genomic nucleic acid sample including or comprising a significant portion of a genome refers to a nucleic acid sample including 50% or more of the sequences present in the entire genome. A genomic nucleic acid sample is a form of nucleic acid sample. Reference herein to a nucleic acid sample encompasses genomic nucleic acid samples unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0039] A nucleic acid sample can be any nucleic acid sample of interest. The source, identity, and preparation of many such nucleic acid samples are known. It is preferred that nucleic acid samples known or identified for use in amplification or detection methods be used for the method described herein. The nucleic acid sample can be, for example, a nucleic acid sample from one or more cells, tissue, or bodily fluids such as blood, urine, semen, lymphatic fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, or amniotic fluid, or other biological samples, such as tissue culture cells, buccal swabs, mouthwash, stool, tissues slices, biopsy aspiration, and archeological samples such as bone or mummified tissue. Types of useful nucleic acid samples include blood samples, urine samples, semen samples, lymphatic fluid samples, cerebrospinal fluid samples, amniotic fluid samples, biopsy samples, needle aspiration biopsy samples, cancer samples, tumor samples, tissue samples, cell samples, cell lysate samples, a crude cell lysate samples, forensic samples, archeological samples, infection samples, nosocomial infection samples, production samples, drug preparation samples, biological molecule production samples, protein preparation samples, lipid preparation samples, and/or carbohydrate preparation samples.

[0040] For whole genome amplification, preferred nucleic acid samples are nucleic acid samples from a single cell. The nucleic acid samples for use in the disclosed method are preferably nucleic acid molecules and samples that are complex and non-repetitive. Where the nucleic acid sample is a genomic nucleic acid sample, the genome can be the genome from any organism of interest. For example, the genome can be a viral genome, a bacterial genome, a eubacterial genome, an archae bacterial genome, a fungal genome, a microbial genome, a eukaryotic genome, a plant genome, an animal genome, a vertebrate genome, an invertebrate genome, an insect genome, a mammalian genome, or a human genome. The target genome is preferably pure or substantially pure, but this is not required. For example, an genomic sample from an animal source may include nucleic acid from contaminating or infecting organisms.

[0041] The nucleic acid sample can be, or can be derived from, for example, one or more whole genomes from the same or different organisms, tissues, cells or a combination; one or more partial genomes from the same or different organisms, tissues, cells or a combination; one or more whole chromosomes from the same or different organisms, tissues, cells or a combination; one or more partial chromosomes from the same or different organisms, tissues, cells or a combination; one or more chromosome fragments from the same or different organisms, tissues, cells or a combination; one or more artificial chromosomes; one or more yeast artificial chromosomes; one or more bacterial artificial chromosomes; one or more cosmids; or any combination of these.

[0042] Where the nucleic acid sample is a nucleic acid sample of high complexity, the nucleic acid molecules in the sample can be from any source or combination of sources that result in a highly complex sample. By high complexity or high sequence complexity is meant that the nucleic acid sample has a large number of unique (that is, non-repeated) sequences. The total number of nucleotides in the unique sequences is the sequence complexity of the nucleic acid sample. For example, the human genome has approximately 310⁹ unique sequences and so has a sequence complexity of approximately 310⁹ nucleotides. A nucleic acid sample of high sequence complexity has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides. Thus, a nucleic acid sample of high sequence complexity can have, for example, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides.

[0043] The nucleic acid sample can also be a nucleic acid sample of significant complexity. By significant complexity or significant sequence complexity is meant that the nucleic acid sample has a significant number of unique (that is, non-repeated) sequences. A nucleic acid sample of significant sequence complexity has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides. Thus, a nucleic acid sample of significant sequence complexity can have, for example, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides. The nucleic acid sample can also be a nucleic acid sample of notable complexity. By notable complexity or notable sequence complexity is meant that the nucleic acid sample has a notable number of unique (that is, non-repeated) sequences. A nucleic acid sample of notable sequence complexity has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides. Thus, a nucleic acid sample of significant sequence complexity can have, for example, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides.

[0044] Nucleic acid samples and genomic nucleic acid samples can have, for example, a sequence complexity of at least 110³ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides.

[0045] B. Primers

[0046] Primers for use in the disclosed amplification method are oligonucleotides having specific sequences. The sequence in a primer intended to hybridize to nucleic acid molecules is referred to as the complementary portion of the primer. The complementary portion of a primer can be any length that supports specific and stable hybridization between the primer and the nucleic acid molecules under the reaction conditions. Generally, for reactions at 30 C., this can be, for example, 5 to 20 nucleotides long or 6 to 8 nucleotides long. For whole genome amplification, the primers can be, for example, from 2 to 60 nucleotides long, and in particular, can be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and/or 20 nucleotides long. The primers also can be, for example, at least 2 nucleotides long, at least 3 nucleotides long, at least 4 nucleotides long, at least 5 nucleotides long, at least 6 nucleotides long, at least 7 nucleotides long, and/or at least 8 nucleotides long. The primers used in an amplification reaction need not be all of the same length, although this is preferred.

[0047] The primers can have, for example, a length of 3 nucleotides, 4 nucleotides, 5 nucleotides, 6 nucleotides, 7 nucleotides, 8 nucleotides, 9 nucleotides, 10 nucleotides, 11 nucleotides, 12 nucleotides, 13 nucleotides, 14 nucleotides, 15 nucleotides, 16 nucleotides, 17 nucleotides, 18 nucleotides, 19 nucleotides, 20 nucleotides, 21 nucleotides, 22 nucleotides, 23 nucleotides, 24 nucleotides, 25 nucleotides, 26 nucleotides, 27 nucleotides, 28 nucleotides, 29 nucleotides, or 30 nucleotides. The primers can have, for example, a length of less than 4 nucleotides, less than 5 nucleotides, less than 6 nucleotides, less than 7 nucleotides, less than 8 nucleotides, less than 9 nucleotides, less than 10 nucleotides, less than 11 nucleotides, less than 12 nucleotides, less than 13 nucleotides, less than 14 nucleotides, less than 15 nucleotides, less than 16 nucleotides, less than 17 nucleotides, less than 18 nucleotides, less than 19 nucleotides, less than 20 nucleotides, less than 21 nucleotides, less than 22 nucleotides, less than 23 nucleotides, less than 24 nucleotides, less than 25 nucleotides, less than 26 nucleotides, less than 27 nucleotides, less than 28 nucleotides, less than 29 nucleotides, less than 30 nucleotides, or less than 31 nucleotides.

[0048] It is preferred that, when hybridized to nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample, the primers hybridize at intervals that allow efficient amplification. This generally can be accomplished by using a number of primers in the amplification reaction such that the primers collectively will be complementary to sequence in the nucleic acid sample at desired intervals. Thus, for example, a single 6 base primer will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 4096 nucleotides, two 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 2048 nucleotides, three 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 1024 nucleotides, four 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 512 nucleotides, five 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 256 nucleotides, six 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 128 nucleotides, seven 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 64 nucleotides, eight 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 32 nucleotides, nine 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 16 nucleotides, ten 6 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 8 nucleotides, and so on. Four 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 8192 nucleotides, five 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 4096 nucleotides, six 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 1024 nucleotides, seven 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 512 nucleotides, eight 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 256 nucleotides, nine 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 128 nucleotides, ten 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 64 nucleotides, eleven 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 32 nucleotides, twelve 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 16 nucleotides, thirteen 8 base primers will be complementary, on average, to a sequence once every 8 nucleotides, and so on.

[0049] The primers can also be complementary to a sequence that occurs, on average, every 5,000 nucleotides or less, every 4,000 nucleotides or less, every 3,000 nucleotides or less, every 2,500 nucleotides or less, every 2,000 nucleotides or less, every 1,500 nucleotides or less, every 1,000 nucleotides or less, every 900 nucleotides or less, every 800 nucleotides or less, every 700 nucleotides or less, every 600 nucleotides or less, every 500 nucleotides or less, every 400 nucleotides or less, every 300 nucleotides or less, every 200 nucleotides or less, every 100 nucleotides or less, or every 50 nucleotides or less, on average, in the nucleic acid molecules of the nucleic acid sample.

[0050] These distances assume a random distribution of sequences, which is approximately true for nucleic acid sample of high complexity, such as genomic nucleic acid samples. These distances are derived from the relationship 4^N, where N is the number of bases in the primer. The distances can be affected by, for example, the GC percentage of nucleotides in the nucleic acid sample since GC percentages other than 50% will have altered distributions of specific nucleotides sequences. Further, the lower the sequence complexity of the nucleic acid sample, the more likely the distribution of specific nucleotide sequences will be altered. However, these effects should not greatly affect the amplification results. The use of shorter primers will minimize these effects. Where the GC percentage of the nucleic acid sample is other than 50%, primers can be chosen and/or designed that have a similar GC percentage, either in each primer or collectively among the primers used for amplification.

[0051] The optimal interval or separation distance between primer complementary sequences (and thus, the optimum number of primers) will not be the same for all DNA polymerases, because this parameter is dependent on the net polymerization rate. A processive DNA polymerase will have a characteristic polymerization rate which may range from 5 to 300 nucleotides per second, and may be influenced by the presence or absence of accessory ssDNA binding proteins and helicases. In the case of a non-processive polymerase, the net polymerization rate will depend on the enzyme concentration, because at higher concentrations there are more re-initiation events and thus the net polymerization rate will be increased. An example of a processive polymerase is 29 DNA polymerase, which proceeds at 50 nucleotides per second. An example of a non-processive polymerase is Vent exo() DNA polymerase, which will give effective polymerization rates of 4 nucleotides per second at low concentration, or 16 nucleotides per second at higher concentrations.

[0052] To obtain an optimal yield in the disclosed method, the number of primers and their composition can be adjusted to suit the polymerase being used. Use of one or a few primers is preferred when using a polymerase with a rapid polymerization rate. Use of more primers is preferred when using a polymerase with a slower polymerization rate. The following assay can be used to determine optimal spacing with any polymerase. The assay uses some combination of one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, and twenty primers. Each new primer reduces the average distance between complementary sequences in the nucleic acids to be amplified. The number of primers can be varied systematically between a range of primer numbers (the average distance between priming sites varies with the number of primers used). A series of reactions can be performed in which the same nucleic acid sample is amplified using the different numbers of primers. The number of primers that produces the highest experimental yield of DNA and/or the highest quality of amplified product is the optimal primer number for the specific DNA polymerase, or DNA polymerase plus accessory protein combination being used.

[0053] DNA replication initiated at the sites in nucleic acid molecules where the primers hybridize will extend to and displace strands being replicated from primers hybridized at adjacent sites. Displacement of an adjacent strand makes it available for hybridization to another primer and subsequent initiation of another round of replication. This process is referred to herein as strand displacement replication.

[0054] Any desired number of primers of different nucleotide sequence can be used, but use of one or a few primers is preferred. The amplification reaction can be performed with, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, or seventeen primers. More primers can be used. There is no fundamental upper limit to the number of primers that can be used. However, the use of fewer primers is preferred. When multiple primers are used, the primers should each have a different specific nucleotide sequence.

[0055] The amplification reaction can be performed with a single primer and, for example, with no additional primers, with 1 additional primer, with 2 additional primers, with 3 additional primers, with 4 additional primers, with 5 additional primers, with 6 additional primers, with 7 additional primers, with 8 additional primers, with 9 additional primers, with 10 additional primers, with 11 additional primers, with 12 additional primers, with 13 additional primers, with 14 additional primers, with 15 additional primers, with 16 additional primers, with 17 additional primers, with 18 additional primers, with 19 additional primers, with 20 additional primers, with 21 additional primers, with 22 additional primers, with 23 additional primers, with 24 additional primers, with 25 additional primers, with 26 additional primers, with 27 additional primers, with 28 additional primers, with 29 additional primers, with 30 additional primers, with 31 additional primers, with 32 additional primers, with 33 additional primers, with 34 additional primers, with 35 additional primers, with 36 additional primers, with 37 additional primers, with 38 additional primers, with 39 additional primers, with 40 additional primers, with 41 additional primers, with 42 additional primers, with 43 additional primers, with 44 additional primers, with 45 additional primers, with 46 additional primers, with 47 additional primers, with 48 additional primers, with 49 additional primers, with 50 additional primers, with 51 additional primers, with 52 additional primers, with 53 additional primers, with 54 additional primers, with 55 additional primers, with 56 additional primers, with 57 additional primers, with 58 additional primers, with 59 additional primers, with 60 additional primers, with 61 additional primers, with 62 additional primers, with 63 additional primers, with 64 additional primers, with 65 additional primers, with 66 additional primers, with 67 additional primers, with 68 additional primers, with 69 additional primers, with 70 additional primers, with 71 additional primers, with 72 additional primers, with 73 additional primers, with 74 additional primers, with 75 additional primers, with 76 additional primers, with 77 additional primers, with 78 additional primers, with 79 additional primers, with 80 additional primers, with 81 additional primers, with 82 additional primers, with 83 additional primers, with 84 additional primers, with 85 additional primers, with 86 additional primers, with 87 additional primers, with 88 additional primers, with 89 additional primers, with 90 additional primers, with 91 additional primers, with 92 additional primers, with 93 additional primers, with 94 additional primers, with 95 additional primers, with 96 additional primers, with 97 additional primers, with 98 additional primers, with 99 additional primers, with 100 additional primers, with 110 additional primers, with 120 additional primers, with 130 additional primers, with 140 additional primers, with 150 additional primers, with 160 additional primers, with 170 additional primers, with 180 additional primers, with 190 additional primers, with 200 additional primers, with 210 additional primers, with 220 additional primers, with 230 additional primers, with 240 additional primers, with 250 additional primers, with 260 additional primers, with 270 additional primers, with 280 additional primers, with 290 additional primers, with 300 additional primers, with 310 additional primers, with 320 additional primers, with 330 additional primers, with 340 additional primers, with 350 additional primers, with 360 additional primers, with 370 additional primers, with 380 additional primers, with 390 additional primers, with 400 additional primers, with 410 additional primers, with 420 additional primers, with 430 additional primers, with 440 additional primers, with 450 additional primers, with 460 additional primers, with 470 additional primers, with 480 additional primers, with 490 additional primers, with 400 additional primers, with 550 additional primers, with 600 additional primers, with 650 additional primers, with 700 additional primers, with 750 additional primers, with 800 additional primers, with 850 additional primers, with 900 additional primers, with 950 additional primers, with 1,000 additional primers, with 1,100 additional primers, with 1,200 additional primers, with 1,300 additional primers, with 1,400 additional primers, with 1,500 additional primers, with 1,600 additional primers, with 1,700 additional primers, with 1,800 additional primers, with 1,900 additional primers, with 2,000 additional primers, with 2,100 additional primers, with 2,200 additional primers, with 2,300 additional primers, with 2,400 additional primers, with 2,500 additional primers, with 2,600 additional primers, with 2,700 additional primers, with 2,800 additional primers, with 2,900 additional primers, with 3,000 additional primers, with 3,500 additional primers, or with 4,000 additional primers.

[0056] The amplification reaction can be performed with a single primer and, for example, with no additional primers, with fewer than 2 additional primers, with fewer than 3 additional primers, with fewer than 4 additional primers, with fewer than 5 additional primers, with fewer than 6 additional primers, with fewer than 7 additional primers, with fewer than 8 additional primers, with fewer than 9 additional primers, with fewer than 10 additional primers, with fewer than 11 additional primers, with fewer than 12 additional primers, with fewer than 13 additional primers, with fewer than 14 additional primers, with fewer than 15 additional primers, with fewer than 16 additional primers, with fewer than 17 additional primers, with fewer than 18 additional primers, with fewer than 19 additional primers, with fewer than 20 additional primers, with fewer than 21 additional primers, with fewer than 22 additional primers, with fewer than 23 additional primers, with fewer than 24 additional primers, with fewer than 25 additional primers, with fewer than 26 additional primers, with fewer than 27 additional primers, with fewer than 28 additional primers, with fewer than 29 additional primers, with fewer than 30 additional primers, with fewer than 31 additional primers, with fewer than 32 additional primers, with fewer than 33 additional primers, with fewer than 34 additional primers, with fewer than 35 additional primers, with fewer than 36 additional primers, with fewer than 37 additional primers, with fewer than 38 additional primers, with fewer than 39 additional primers, with fewer than 40 additional primers, with fewer than 41 additional primers, with fewer than 42 additional primers, with fewer than 43 additional primers, with fewer than 44 additional primers, with fewer than 45 additional primers, with fewer than 46 additional primers, with fewer than 47 additional primers, with fewer than 48 additional primers, with fewer than 49 additional primers, with fewer than 50 additional primers, with fewer than 51 additional primers, with fewer than 52 additional primers, with fewer than 53 additional primers, with fewer than 54 additional primers, with fewer than 55 additional primers, with fewer than 56 additional primers, with fewer than 57 additional primers, with fewer than 58 additional primers, with fewer than 59 additional primers, with fewer than 60 additional primers, with fewer than 61 additional primers, with fewer than 62 additional primers, with fewer than 63 additional primers, with fewer than 64 additional primers, with fewer than 65 additional primers, with fewer than 66 additional primers, with fewer than 67 additional primers, with fewer than 68 additional primers, with fewer than 69 additional primers, with fewer than 70 additional primers, with fewer than 71 additional primers, with fewer than 72 additional primers, with fewer than 73 additional primers, with fewer than 74 additional primers, with fewer than 75 additional primers, with fewer than 76 additional primers, with fewer than 77 additional primers, with fewer than 78 additional primers, with fewer than 79 additional primers, with fewer than 80 additional primers, with fewer than 81 additional primers, with fewer than 82 additional primers, with fewer than 83 additional primers, with fewer than 84 additional primers, with fewer than 85 additional primers, with fewer than 86 additional primers, with fewer than 87 additional primers, with fewer than 88 additional primers, with fewer than 89 additional primers, with fewer than 90 additional primers, with fewer than 91 additional primers, with fewer than 92 additional primers, with fewer than 93 additional primers, with fewer than 94 additional primers, with fewer than 95 additional primers, with fewer than 96 additional primers, with fewer than 97 additional primers, with fewer than 98 additional primers, with fewer than 99 additional primers, with fewer than 100 additional primers, with fewer than 110 additional primers, with fewer than 120 additional primers, with fewer than 130 additional primers, with fewer than 140 additional primers, with fewer than 150 additional primers, with fewer than 160 additional primers, with fewer than 170 additional primers, with fewer than 180 additional primers, with fewer than 190 additional primers, with fewer than 200 additional primers, with fewer than 210 additional primers, with fewer than 220 additional primers, with fewer than 230 additional primers, with fewer than 240 additional primers, with fewer than 250 additional primers, with fewer than 260 additional primers, with fewer than 270 additional primers, with fewer than 280 additional primers, with fewer than 290 additional primers, with fewer than 300 additional primers, with fewer than 310 additional primers, with fewer than 320 additional primers, with fewer than 330 additional primers, with fewer than 340 additional primers, with fewer than 350 additional primers, with fewer than 360 additional primers, with fewer than 370 additional primers, with fewer than 380 additional primers, with fewer than 390 additional primers, with fewer than 400 additional primers, with fewer than 410 additional primers, with fewer than 420 additional primers, with fewer than 430 additional primers, with fewer than 440 additional primers, with fewer than 450 additional primers, with fewer than 460 additional primers, with fewer than 470 additional primers, with fewer than 480 additional primers, with fewer than 490 additional primers, with fewer than 500 additional primers, with fewer than 550 additional primers, with fewer than 600 additional primers, with fewer than 650 additional primers, with fewer than 700 additional primers, with fewer than 750 additional primers, with fewer than 800 additional primers, with fewer than 850 additional primers, with fewer than 900 additional primers, with fewer than 950 additional primers, with fewer than 1,000 additional primers, with fewer than 1,100 additional primers, with fewer than 1,200 additional primers, with fewer than 1,300 additional primers, with fewer than fewer than 1,400 additional primers, with fewer than 1,500 additional primers, with fewer than 1,600 additional primers, with fewer than 1,700 additional primers, with fewer than 1,800 additional primers, with fewer than 1,900 additional primers, with fewer than 2,000 additional primers, with fewer than 2,100 additional primers, with fewer than 2,200 additional primers, with fewer than 2,300 additional primers, with fewer than 2,400 additional primers, with fewer than 2,500 additional primers, with fewer than 2,600 additional primers, with fewer than 2,700 additional primers, with fewer than 2,800 additional primers, with fewer than 2,900 additional primers, with fewer than 3,000 additional primers, with fewer than 3,500 additional primers, or with fewer than 4,000 additional primers.

[0057] The amplification reaction can be performed, for example, with fewer than 2 primers, with fewer than 3 primers, with fewer than 4 primers, with fewer than 5 primers, with fewer than 6 primers, with fewer than 7 primers, with fewer than 8 primers, with fewer than 9 primers, with fewer than 10 primers, with fewer than 11 primers, with fewer than 12 primers, with fewer than 13 primers, with fewer than 14 primers, with fewer than 15 primers, with fewer than 16 primers, with fewer than 17 primers, with fewer than 18 primers, with fewer than 19 primers, with fewer than 20 primers, with fewer than 21 primers, with fewer than 22 primers, with fewer than 23 primers, with fewer than 24 primers, with fewer than 25 primers, with fewer than 26 primers, with fewer than 27 primers, with fewer than 28 primers, with fewer than 29 primers, with fewer than 30 primers, with fewer than 31 primers, with fewer than 32 primers, with fewer than 33 primers, with fewer than 34 primers, with fewer than 35 primers, with fewer than 36 primers, with fewer than 37 primers, with fewer than 38 primers, with fewer than 39 primers, with fewer than 40 primers, with fewer than 41 primers, with fewer than 42 primers, with fewer than 43 primers, with fewer than 44 primers, with fewer than 45 primers, with fewer than 46 primers, with fewer than 47 primers, with fewer than 48 primers, with fewer than 49 primers, with fewer than 50 primers, with fewer than 51 primers, with fewer than 52 primers, with fewer than 53 primers, with fewer than 54 primers, with fewer than 55 primers, with fewer than 56 primers, with fewer than 57 primers, with fewer than 58 primers, with fewer than 59 primers, with fewer than 60 primers, with fewer than 61 primers, with fewer than 62 primers, with fewer than 63 primers, with fewer than 64 primers, with fewer than 65 primers, with fewer than 66 primers, with fewer than 67 primers, with fewer than 68 primers, with fewer than 69 primers, with fewer than 70 primers, with fewer than 71 primers, with fewer than 72 primers, with fewer than 73 primers, with fewer than 74 primers, with fewer than 75 primers, with fewer than 76 primers, with fewer than 77 primers, with fewer than 78 primers, with fewer than 79 primers, with fewer than 80 primers, with fewer than 81 primers, with fewer than 82 primers, with fewer than 83 primers, with fewer than 84 primers, with fewer than 85 primers, with fewer than 86 primers, with fewer than 87 primers, with fewer than 88 primers, with fewer than 89 primers, with fewer than 90 primers, with fewer than 91 primers, with fewer than 92 primers, with fewer than 93 primers, with fewer than 94 primers, with fewer than 95 primers, with fewer than 96 primers, with fewer than 97 primers, with fewer than 98 primers, with fewer than 99 primers, with fewer than 700 primers, with fewer than 110 primers, with fewer than 120 primers, with fewer than 130 primers, with fewer than 140 primers, with fewer than 150 primers, with fewer than 160 primers, with fewer than 170 primers, with fewer than 180 primers, with fewer than 190 primers, with fewer than 200 primers, with fewer than 210 primers, with fewer than 220 primers, with fewer than 230 primers, with fewer than 240 primers, with fewer than 250 primers, with fewer than 260 primers, with fewer than 270 primers, with fewer than 280 primers, with fewer than 290 primers, with fewer than 300 primers, with fewer than 310 primers, with fewer than 320 primers, with fewer than 330 primers, with fewer than 340 primers, with fewer than 350 primers, with fewer than 360 primers, with fewer than 370 primers, with fewer than 380 primers, with fewer than 390 primers, with fewer than 400 primers, with fewer than 410 primers, with fewer than 420 primers, with fewer than 430 primers, with fewer than 440 primers, with fewer than 450 primers, with fewer than 460 primers, with fewer than 470 primers, with fewer than 480 primers, with fewer than 490 primers, with fewer than 500 primers, with fewer than 550 primers, with fewer than 600 primers, with fewer than 650 primers, with fewer than 700 primers, with fewer than 750 primers, with fewer than 800 primers, with fewer than 850 primers, with fewer than 900 primers, with fewer than 950 primers, with fewer than 1,000 primers, with fewer than 1,000 primers, with fewer than 1,200 primers, with fewer than 1,300 primers, with fewer than fewer than 1,400 primers, with fewer than 1,500 primers, with fewer than 1,600 primers, with fewer than 1,700 primers, with fewer than 1,800 primers, with fewer than 1,900 primers, with fewer than 2,000 primers, with fewer than 2,100 primers, with fewer than 2,200 primers, with fewer than 2,300 primers, with fewer than 2,400 primers, with fewer than 2,500 primers, with fewer than 2,600 primers, with fewer than 2,700 primers, with fewer than 2,800 primers, with fewer than 2,900 primers, with fewer than 3,000 primers, with fewer than 3,500 primers, or with fewer than 4,000 primers.

[0058] The primers used in the disclosed method can be selected and/or designed to have certain desirable features and functional characteristics. The goal of primer selection and primer design can be obtaining better amplification results. For example, particular primers can be selected that result in the highest amplification yield (that is, the highest amount of increase in the amount of nucleic acid), the best locus or sequence representation in the amplified nucleic acid (that is, the closest to 100% locus or sequence representation for loci and sequences of interest), and/or the lowest amplification bias. This can be determined by testing particular primers in amplification reactions using a nucleic acid sample of interest. Different primers may produce optimal results for different nucleic acid samples. However, the primer number and primer composition principles described herein will generally produce good amplification results on nearly every nucleic acid sample. This broad-based usefulness of the disclosed primers and method is a useful feature of the disclosed primers and method.

[0059] Primers that produce amplification products of a desired quality are referred to herein as broad coverage primers. In general, a broad coverage primer (or primers, when used together) can produce a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 5 different loci, a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 5 different target sequences, an amplification bias of less than 50-fold, an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different loci, and/or an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different target sequences. Primers can also produce, for example, a locus representation of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% for at least 5 different loci. Primers can also produce, for example, a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci.

[0060] Primers can also produce, for example, a sequence representation of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% for at least 5 different target sequences. Primers can also produce, for example, a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0061] Primers can also produce, for example, an amplification bias of less than 45-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 25-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 19-fold, less than 18-fold, less than 17-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 15-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 13-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 5-fold, or less than 4-fold. Primers can also produce, for example, an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different loci, for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci. Primers can also produce, for example, an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different target sequences, for at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0062] These results can be over a variety of nucleic acid samples, for some selected types of nucleic acid samples, or for a specific type of nucleic acid sample. Thus, a broad coverage primer can be a broad coverage primer when used for, for example, a specific type of nucleic acid sample, when used for selected types of nucleic acid samples, or when used for a variety of nucleic acid samples or nucleic acid samples in general. Thus, the designation broad coverage primer is generally dependent on the nucleic acid sample involved and can also depend on the DNA polymerase used and the conditions used.

[0063] Regarding primer selection and design, as described above and elsewhere herein, the primers can be designed (in length and number of primers used) to hybridize at certain intervals, on average, in the nucleotide sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Distribution of primer complement sites can also be achieved by choosing primer sequences that are complementary to sequences that are repeated many times in the nucleic acid sample. Such sequences include classic repeat sequences, such as microsatellite sequences, minisatellite sequences, satellite sequences, transposon sequences, ribosomal RNA sequences, short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs), or long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs); and functional consensus sequences, such as promoter sequences, enhancer sequences, silencer sequences, upstream regulatory element sequences, transcription termination site sequences, transposon regulatory sequences, ribosomal RNA regulatory sequences, or polyadenylation site sequences. For example, the primer sequence can be chosen to be complementary to a sequence in an Alu repeat sequence. As a specific example, the primer can have one of the sequences AGTGGG or AGAGAG; one of the sequences AGCCGG, AGTAGG, or AGTTGG; one of the sequences AGGCGG, AGTGGG, AGGGAG, or AGTGAG; one of the sequences AGTGGG, AGCCAG, AGTTAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG; one of the sequences AGAGGG, AGGCAG, AGCCAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG; one of the sequences AGTAGG, AGGTGG, AGGCAG, AGACAG, or AGTGAG; AGGAGG, AGAGGG, AGGGAG, AGTCAG, or AGCGAG; or one of the sequences CGGTGG, TCACGC, CGAGCG, GCGTGG, ACTCGG, AATCGC, CGGAGG, CCGAGA, GATCGC, AGAGCG, AGCGAG, or ACTCCG. Multiple primers used in a reaction can have different sequences that are, for example, complementary to different sequences in an Alu repeat sequence. As a specific example, each primer has a different one of the sequences AGTGGG or AGAGAG; a different one of the sequences AGCCGG, AGTAGG, or AGTTGG; a different one of the sequences AGGCGG, AGTGGG, AGGGAG, or AGTGAG; a different one of the sequences AGTGGG, AGCCAG, AGTTAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG; a different one of the sequences AGAGGG, AGGCAG, AGCCAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG; a different one of the sequences AGTAGG, AGGTGG, AGGCAG, AGACAG, or AGTGAG; AGGAGG, AGAGGG, AGGGAG, AGTCAG, or AGCGAG; or a different one of the sequences CGGTGG, TCACGC, CGAGCG, GCGTGG, ACTCGG, AATCGC, CGGAGG, CCGAGA, GATCGC, AGAGCG, AGCGAG, or ACTCCG.

[0064] The nucleotide sequence and composition of the primers used can also be chosen to optimize amplification. For example, the GC percentage of the primers can be chosen based on the GC percentage of the nucleic acid sample to be amplified. The primer can have, for example, a GC percentage within 20%, within 15%, within 10%, within 9%, within 8%, within 7%, within 6%, within 5%, within 4%, within 3%, within 2%, or within 1% of the GC percentage of the nucleic acid sample. As used herein, GC percentage refers to the percent of total nucleotides that are either guanosine (G) residues or cytidine (C) residues in a given nucleic acid molecule, nucleic acid sequence, nucleic acid sample, or other nucleic acid composition.

[0065] The primers can also have other characteristics that can, for example, increase amplification yield and reduce production of artifacts or artifactual amplification. For example, generation of primer dimer artifacts can be reduced by designing primers to avoid 3 end sequences that are complementary, either between primers or within the same primer. Such sequences to be avoided can be referred to as inter-complementary 3 ends. A useful measure of a primer's ability to avoid artifactual amplification is the lack or relative insignificance of amplification (that is, nucleic acid produced) when the primer is used in an amplification reaction without a nucleic acid sample.

[0066] The disclosed primers can have one or more modified nucleotides. Such primers are referred to herein as modified primers. Modified primers have several advantages. First, some forms of modified primers, such as RNA/2-O-methyl RNA chimeric primers, have a higher melting temperature (Tm) than DNA primers. This increases the stability of primer hybridization and will increase strand invasion by the primers. This will lead to more efficient priming. Also, since the primers are made of RNA, they will be exonuclease resistant. Such primers, if tagged with minor groove binders at their 5 end, will also have better strand invasion of the template dsDNA.

[0067] Chimeric primers can also be used. Chimeric primers are primers having at least two types of nucleotides, such as both deoxyribonuucleotides and ribonucleotides, ribonucleotides and modified nucleotides, two or more types of modified nucleotides, deoxyribonucleotides and two or more different types of modified nucleotides, ribonucleotides and two or more different types of modified nucleotides, or deoxyribonucleotides, ribonucleotides and two or more different types of modified nucleotides. One form of chimeric primer is peptide nucleic acid/nucleic acid primers. For example, 5-PNA-DNA-3 or 5-PNA-RNA-3 primers may be used for more efficient strand invasion and polymerization invasion. Other forms of chimeric primers are, for example, 5-(2-O-Methyl) RNA-RNA-3 or 5-(2-O-Methyl) RNA-DNA-3.

[0068] Many modified nucleotides (nucleotide analogs) are known and can be used in oligonucleotides. A nucleotide analog is a nucleotide which contains some type of modification to either the base, sugar, or phosphate moieties. Modifications to the base moiety would include natural and synthetic modifications of A, C, G, and T/U as well as different purine or pyrimidine bases, such as uracil-5-yl, hypoxanthin-9-yl (I), and 2-aminoadenin-9-yl. A modified base includes but is not limited to 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C), 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl uracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-deazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine. Additional base modifications can be found for example in U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, Englisch et al., Angewandte Chemie, International Edition, 1991, 30, 613, and Sanghvi, Y. S., Chapter 15, Antisense Research and Applications, pages 289-302, Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B. ed., CRC Press, 1993. Certain nucleotide analogs, such as 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and O-6 substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and 5-propynylcytosine. 5-methylcytosine can increase the stability of duplex formation. Other modified bases are those that function as universal bases. Universal bases include 3-nitropyrrole and 5-nitroindole. Universal bases substitute for the normal bases but have no bias in base pairing. That is, universal bases can base pair with any other base. A primer having one or more universal bases is not considered to be a primer having a specific sequence.

[0069] Base modifications often can be combined with for example a sugar modification, such as 2-O-methoxyethyl, to achieve unique properties such as increased duplex stability. There are numerous United States patents such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,845,205; 5,130,302; 5,134,066; 5,175,273; 5,367,066; 5,432,272; 5,457,187; 5,459,255; 5,484,908; 5,502,177; 5,525,711; 5,552,540; 5,587,469; 5,594,121, 5,596,091; 5,614,617; and 5,681,941, which detail and describe a range of base modifications. Each of these patents is herein incorporated by reference.

[0070] Nucleotide analogs can also include modifications of the sugar moiety. Modifications to the sugar moiety would include natural modifications of the ribose and deoxyribose as well as synthetic modifications. Sugar modifications include but are not limited to the following modifications at the 2 position: OH; F; O-, S-, or N-alkyl; O-, S-, or N-alkenyl; O-, S- or N-alkynyl; or O-alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and alkynyl may be substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C10, alkyl or C2 to C10 alkenyl and alkynyl. 2 sugar modifications also include but are not limited to O(CH₂)n Om CH₃, O(CH₂)n OCH₃, O(CH₂)n NH₂, O(CH₂)n CH₃, O(CH₂)nONH₂, and O(CH₂)n ON(CH₂)n CH₃)₂, where n and m are from 1 to about 10.

[0071] Other modifications at the 2 position include but are not limited to: C1 to C10 lower alkyl, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH₃, OCN, Cl, Br, CN, CF₃, OCF₃, SOCH₃, SO₂ CH₃, ONO₂, NO₂, N₃, NH₂, heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl, aminoalkylamino, polyalkylamino, substituted silyl, an RNA cleaving group, a reporter group, an intercalator, a group for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of an oligonucleotide, or a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an oligonucleotide, and other substituents having similar properties. Similar modifications may also be made at other positions on the sugar, particularly the 3 position of the sugar on the 3 terminal nucleotide or in 2-5 linked oligonucleotides and the 5 position of 5 terminal nucleotide. Modified sugars would also include those that contain modifications at the bridging ring oxygen, such as CH₂ and S. Nucleotide sugar analogs may also have sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyl moieties in place of the pentofuranosyl sugar. There are numerous United States patents that teach the preparation of such modified sugar structures such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,981,957; 5,118,800; 5,319,080; 5,359,044; 5,393,878; 5,446,137; 5,466,786; 5,514,785; 5,519,134; 5,567,811; 5,576,427; 5,591,722; 5,597,909; 5,610,300; 5,627,053; 5,639,873; 5,646,265; 5,658,873; 5,670,633; and 5,700,920, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0072] Nucleotide analogs can also be modified at the phosphate moiety. Modified phosphate moieties include but are not limited to those that can be modified so that the linkage between two nucleotides contains a phosphorothioate, chiral phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, phosphotriester, aminoalkylphosphotriester, methyl and other alkyl phosphonates including 3-alkylene phosphonate and chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates including 3-amino phosphoramidate and aminoalkylphosphoramidates, thionophosphoramidates, thionoalkylphosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, and boranophosphates. It is understood that these phosphate or modified phosphate linkages between two nucleotides can be through a 3-5 linkage or a 2-5 linkage, and the linkage can contain inverted polarity such as 3-5 to 5-3 or 2-5 to 5-2. Various salts, mixed salts and free acid forms are also included. Numerous United States patents teach how to make and use nucleotides containing modified phosphates and include but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,687,808; 4,469,863; 4,476,301; 5,023,243; 5,177,196; 5,188,897; 5,264,423; 5,276,019; 5,278,302; 5,286,717; 5,321,131; 5,399,676; 5,405,939; 5,453,496; 5,455,233; 5,466,677; 5,476,925; 5,519,126; 5,536,821; 5,541,306; 5,550,111; 5,563,253; 5,571,799; 5,587,361; and 5,625,050, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

[0073] It is understood that nucleotide analogs need only contain a single modification, but may also contain multiple modifications within one of the moieties or between different moieties.

[0074] Nucleotide substitutes are molecules having similar functional properties to nucleotides, but which do not contain a phosphate moiety, such as peptide nucleic acid (PNA). Nucleotide substitutes are molecules that will recognize and hybridize to complementary nucleic acids in a Watson-Crick or Hoogsteen manner, but which are linked together through a moiety other than a phosphate moiety. Nucleotide substitutes are able to conform to a double helix type structure when interacting with the appropriate nucleic acid molecules.

[0075] Nucleotide substitutes are nucleotides or nucleotide analogs that have had the phosphate moiety and/or sugar moieties replaced. Nucleotide substitutes do not contain a standard phosphorus atom. Substitutes for the phosphate can be for example, short chain alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, mixed heteroatom and alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, or one or more short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic internucleoside linkages. These include those having morpholino linkages (formed in part from the sugar portion of a nucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxide and sulfone backbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; methylene formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containing backbones; sulfamate backbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino backbones; sulfonate and sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; and others having mixed N, O, S and CH2 component parts. Numerous United States patents disclose how to make and use these types of phosphate replacements and include but are not limited to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,034,506; 5,166,315; 5,185,444; 5,214,134; 5,216,141; 5,235,033; 5,264,562; 5,264,564; 5,405,938; 5,434,257; 5,466,677; 5,470,967; 5,489,677; 5,541,307; 5,561,225; 5,596,086; 5,602,240; 5,610,289; 5,602,240; 5,608,046; 5,610,289; 5,618,704; 5,623,070; 5,663,312; 5,633,360; 5,677,437; and 5,677,439, each of which is herein incorporated by reference.

[0076] It is also understood in a nucleotide substitute that both the sugar and the phosphate moieties of the nucleotide can be replaced, by for example an amide type linkage (aminoethylglycine) (PNA). U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,539,082; 5,714,331; and 5,719,262 teach how to make and use PNA molecules, each of which is herein incorporated by reference. (See also Nielsen et al., Science 254:1497-1500 (1991)).

[0077] Primers can be comprised of nucleotides and can be made up of different types of nucleotides or the same type of nucleotides. For example, one or more of the nucleotides in a primer can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; about 10% to about 50% of the nucleotides can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; about 50% or more of the nucleotides can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; or all of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. The nucleotides can be comprised of bases (that is, the base portion of the nucleotide) and can (and normally will) comprise different types of bases.

[0078] Primers may, but need not, also contain additional sequence at the 5 end of the primer that is not complementary to a target sequence. This sequence is referred to as the non-complementary portion of the primer. Primers for use in the disclosed method can include a non-complementary portion or can lack a non-complementary portion. The non-complementary portion of the primer, if present, serves to facilitate strand displacement during DNA replication. The non-complementary portion of the primer can also include a functional sequence such as a promoter for an RNA polymerase. The non-complementary portion of a primer may be any length, but is generally 1 to 100 nucleotides long, and preferably 4 to 8 nucleotides long. It is preferred that the complementary portion of each primer have a different sequence.

[0079] It is specifically contemplated that primers having random or degenerate sequence can be excluded from use in the disclosed method. It is also specifically contemplated that use of conditions that allow or are compatible with substantial, significant or notable mismatch hybridization of the primers to nucleic acid molecules being amplified can be excluded. As used herein, substantial mismatch hybridization of a primer refers to hybridization where 90% or more of the primer nucleotides are unpaired to nucleotides in the hybridization partner. Significant mismatch hybridization of a primer refers to hybridization where 50% or more of the primer nucleotides are unpaired to nucleotides in the hybridization partner. Notable mismatch hybridization of a primer refers to hybridization where 10% or more of the primer nucleotides are unpaired to nucleotides in the hybridization partner. Choosing conditions that avoid or that are not compatible with substantial or significant or notable mismatch hybridization of the primers emphasizes the use of specific or substantially specific hybridization of the primers in the disclosed method.

[0080] As used herein, conditions compatible with a given level of mismatch hybridization refer to conditions that would result in a notable fraction or more of hybridizations to be at the given level. Conditions that are not compatible with a given level of mismatch hybridization refer to conditions that would not result in a notable fraction of hybridizations to be at the given level. Conditions that allow a given level of mismatch hybridization refer to conditions that would result in a notable fraction or more of hybridizations to be at the given level. Conditions that do not allow a given level of mismatch hybridization refer to conditions that would not result in a notable fraction of hybridizations to be at the given level. In this regard, it is understood that conditions that theoretically would or would not produce a given level of hybridization will not prevent some transient or rare mismatch hybridizations.

[0081] An important factor for conditions that do or do not allow, or that are or are not compatible with, a given level of mismatch hybridization is the temperature at which the amplification is carried out. Thus, for example, a temperature significantly below the melting temperature of a primer generally would allow a higher level of mismatch hybridization by that primer than a temperature closer to its melting temperature because hybrids involving only some of the nucleotides in the primer would be stable at the lower temperature. In this way, the reaction temperature (that is, the temperature at which the nucleic acid sample, primer and DNA polymerase are incubated for amplification) affects the level of mismatch hybridization and the intervals at which primers will hybridize to nucleotide sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0082] To make use of primer specificity in the disclosed method, the primers can be designed (or, conversely, the incubation temperature can be chosen) to reduce the level of mismatch hybridization. In general, this can involve use of lower incubation temperatures for shorter primers and higher incubation temperatures for longer primers. As deemed suitable and desirable, the primers can be designed for use at, and/or the amplification reaction can be incubated at 20 C., 21 C., 22 C., 23 C., 24 C., 25 C., 26 C., 27 C., 28 C., 29 C., 30 C., 31 C., 32 C., 33 C., 34 C., 35 C., 36 C., 37 C., 38 C., 39 C., 40 C., 41 C., 42 C., 43 C., 44 C., 45 C., 46 C., 47 C., 48 C., 49 C., 50 C., 51 C., 52 C., 53 C., 54 C., 55 C., 56 C., 57 C., 58 C., 59 C., 60 C., 61 C., 62 C., 63 C., 64 C., 65 C., 66 C., 67 C., 68 C., 69 C., 70 C., 71 C., 72 C., 73 C., 74 C., 75 C., 76 C., 77 C., 78 C., 79 C., or 80 C. The primers can be designed for use at, and/or the amplification reaction can be incubated at less than 21 C., less than 22 C., less than 23 C., less than 24 C., less than 25 C., less than 26 C., less than 27 C., less than 28 C., less than 29 C., less than 30 C., less than 31 C., less than 32 C., less than 33 C., less than 34 C., less than 35 C., less than 36 C., less than 37 C., less than 38 C., less than 39 C., less than 40 C., less than 41 C., less than 42 C., less than 43 C., less than 44 C., less than 45 C., less than 46 C., less than 47 C., less than 48 C., less than 49 C., less than 50 C., less than 51 C., less than 52 C., less than 53 C., less than 54 C., less than 55 C., less than 56 C., less than 57 C., less than 58 C., less than 59 C., less than 60 C., less than 61 C., less than 62 C., less than 63 C., less than 64 C., less than 65 C., less than 66 C., less than 67 C., less than 68 C., less than 69 C., less than 70 C., less than 71 C., less than 72 C., less than 73 C., less than 74 C., less than 75 C., less than 76 C., less than 77 C., less than 78 C., less than 79 C., or less than 80 C.

[0083] 1. Detection Tags

[0084] The non-complementary portion of a primer can include sequences to be used to further manipulate or analyze amplified sequences. An example of such a sequence is a detection tag, which is a specific nucleotide sequence present in the non-complementary portion of a primer. Detection tags have sequences complementary to detection probes. Detection tags can be detected using their cognate detection probes. Detection tags become incorporated at the ends of amplified strands. The result is amplified DNA having detection tag sequences that are complementary to the complementary portion of detection probes. If present, there may be one, two, three, or more than three detection tags on a primer. It is preferred that a primer have one, two, three or four detection tags. Most preferably, a primer will have one detection tag. Generally, it is preferred that a primer have 10 detection tags or less. There is no fundamental limit to the number of detection tags that can be present on a primer except the size of the primer. When there are multiple detection tags, they may have the same sequence or they may have different sequences, with each different sequence complementary to a different detection probe. It is preferred that a primer contain detection tags that have the same sequence such that they are all complementary to a single detection probe. For some multiplex detection methods, it is preferable that primers contain up to six detection tags and that the detection tag portions have different sequences such that each of the detection tag portions is complementary to a different detection probe. A similar effect can be achieved by using multiple primers where each has a single different detection tag. The detection tags can each be any length that supports specific and stable hybridization between the detection tags and the detection probe. For this purpose, a length of 10 to 35 nucleotides is preferred, with a detection tag portion 15 to 20 nucleotides long being most preferred.

[0085] 2. Address Tag

[0086] Another example of a sequence that can be included in the non-complementary portion of a primer is an address tag. An address tag has a sequence complementary to an address probe. Address tags become incorporated at the ends of amplified strands. The result is amplified DNA having address tag sequences that are complementary to the complementary portion of address probes. If present, there may be one, or more than one, address tag on a primer. It is preferred that a primer have one or two address tags. Most preferably, a primer will have one address tag. Generally, it is preferred that a primer have 10 address tags or less. There is no fundamental limit to the number of address tags that can be present on a primer except the size of the primer. When there are multiple address tags, they may have the same sequence or they may have different sequences, with each different sequence complementary to a different address probe. It is preferred that a primer contain address tags that have the same sequence such that they are all complementary to a single address probe. The address tag portion can be any length that supports specific and stable hybridization between the address tag and the address probe. For this purpose, a length between 10 and 35 nucleotides long is preferred, with an address tag portion 15 to 20 nucleotides long being most preferred.

[0087] C. Fluorescent Change Probes and Primers

[0088] Fluorescent change probes and fluorescent change primers refer to all probes and primers that involve a change in fluorescence intensity or wavelength based on a change in the form or conformation of the probe or primer and nucleic acid to be detected, assayed or replicated. Examples of fluorescent change probes and primers include molecular beacons, Amplifluors, FRET probes, cleavable FRET probes, TaqMan probes, scorpion primers, fluorescent triplex oligos, fluorescent water-soluble conjugated polymers, PNA probes and QPNA probes.

[0089] Fluorescent change probes and primers can be classified according to their structure and/or function. Fluorescent change probes include hairpin quenched probes, cleavage quenched probes, cleavage activated probes, and fluorescent activated probes. Fluorescent change primers include stem quenched primers and hairpin quenched primers. The use of several types of fluorescent change probes and primers are reviewed in Schweitzer and Kingsmore, Curr. Opin. Biotech. 12:21-27 (2001). Hall et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 97:8272-8277 (2000), describe the use of fluorescent change probes with Invader assays.

[0090] Hairpin quenched probes are probes that when not bound to a target sequence form a hairpin structure (and, typically, a loop) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the probe binds to a target sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. Examples of hairpin quenched probes are molecular beacons, fluorescent triplex oligos, and QPNA probes.

[0091] Cleavage activated probes are probes where fluorescence is increased by cleavage of the probe. Cleavage activated probes can include a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety in proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the probe is clipped or digested (typically by the 5-3 exonuclease activity of a polymerase during amplification), the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. TaqMan probes (Holland et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 88:7276-7280 (1991)) are an example of cleavage activated probes.

[0092] Cleavage quenched probes are probes where fluorescence is decreased or altered by cleavage of the probe. Cleavage quenched probes can include an acceptor fluorescent label and a donor moiety such that, when the acceptor and donor are in proximity, fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the donor to the acceptor causes the acceptor to fluoresce. The probes are thus fluorescent, for example, when hybridized to a target sequence. When the probe is clipped or digested (typically by the 5-3 exonuclease activity of a polymerase during amplification), the donor moiety is no longer in proximity to the acceptor fluorescent label and fluorescence from the acceptor decreases. If the donor moiety is itself a fluorescent label, it can release energy as fluorescence (typically at a different wavelength than the fluorescence of the acceptor) when not in proximity to an acceptor. The overall effect would then be a reduction of acceptor fluorescence and an increase in donor fluorescence. Donor fluorescence in the case of cleavage quenched probes is equivalent to fluorescence generated by cleavage activated probes with the acceptor being the quenching moiety and the donor being the fluorescent label. Cleavable FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) probes are an example of cleavage quenched probes.

[0093] Fluorescent activated probes are probes or pairs of probes where fluorescence is, increased or altered by hybridization of the probe to a target sequence. Fluorescent activated probes can include an acceptor fluorescent label and a donor moiety such that, when the acceptor and donor are in proximity (when the probes are hybridized to a target sequence), fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the donor to the acceptor causes the acceptor to fluoresce. Fluorescent activated probes are typically pairs of probes designed to hybridize to adjacent sequences such that the acceptor and donor are brought into proximity. Fluorescent activated probes can also be single probes containing both a donor and acceptor where, when the probe is not hybridized to a target sequence, the donor and acceptor are not in proximity but where the donor and acceptor are brought into proximity when the probe hybridized to a target sequence. This can be accomplished, for example, by placing the donor and acceptor on opposite ends a the probe and placing target complement sequences at each end of the probe where the target complement sequences are complementary to adjacent sequences in a target sequence. If the donor moiety of a fluorescent activated probe is itself a fluorescent label, it can release energy as fluorescence (typically at a different wavelength than the fluorescence of the acceptor) when not in proximity to an acceptor (that is, when the probes are not hybridized to the target sequence). When the probes hybridize to a target sequence, the overall effect would then be a reduction of donor fluorescence and an increase in acceptor fluorescence. FRET probes are an example of fluorescent activated probes.

[0094] Stem quenched primers are primers that when not hybridized to a complementary sequence form a stem structure (either an intramolecular stem structure or an intermolecular stem structure) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the primer binds to a complementary sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. In the disclosed method, stem quenched primers are used as primers for nucleic acid synthesis and thus become incorporated into the synthesized or amplified nucleic acid. Examples of stem quenched primers are peptide nucleic acid quenched primers and hairpin quenched primers.

[0095] Peptide nucleic acid quenched primers are primers associated with a peptide nucleic acid quencher or a peptide nucleic acid fluor to form a stem structure. The primer contains a fluorescent label or a quenching moiety and is associated with either a peptide nucleic acid quencher or a peptide nucleic acid fluor, respectively. This puts the fluorescent label in proximity to the quenching moiety. When the primer is replicated, the peptide nucleic acid is displaced, thus allowing the fluorescent label to produce a fluorescent signal.

[0096] Hairpin quenched primers are primers that when not hybridized to a complementary sequence form a hairpin structure (and, typically, a loop) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the primer binds to a complementary sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. Hairpin quenched primers are typically used as primers for nucleic acid synthesis and thus become incorporated into the synthesized or amplified nucleic acid. Examples of hairpin quenched primers are Amplifluor primers (Nazerenko et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 25:2516-2521 (1997)) and scorpion primers (Thelwell et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 28(19):3752-3761 (2000)).

[0097] Cleavage activated primers are similar to cleavage activated probes except that they are primers that are incorporated into replicated strands and are then subsequently cleaved. Little et al., Clin. Chem. 45:777-784 (1999), describe the use of cleavage activated primers.

[0098] D. Nucleic Acid Fingerprints

[0099] The disclosed method can be used to produce replicated strands that serve as a nucleic acid fingerprint of a complex sample of nucleic acid. Such a nucleic acid fingerprint can be compared with other, similarly prepared nucleic acid fingerprints of other nucleic acid samples to allow convenient detection of differences between the samples. The nucleic acid fingerprints can be used both for detection of related nucleic acid samples and comparison of nucleic acid samples. For example, the presence or identity of specific organisms can be detected by producing a nucleic acid fingerprint of the test organism and comparing the resulting nucleic acid fingerprint with reference nucleic acid fingerprints prepared from known organisms. Changes and differences in gene expression patterns can also be detected by preparing nucleic acid fingerprints of mRNA from different cell samples and comparing the nucleic acid fingerprints. The replicated strands can also be used to produce a set of probes or primers that is specific for the source of a nucleic acid sample. The replicated strands can also be used as a library of nucleic acid sequences present in a sample. Nucleic acid fingerprints can be made up of, or derived from, whole genome amplification of a sample such that the entire relevant nucleic acid content of the sample is substantially represented, or from multiple strand displacement amplification of selected target sequences within a sample.

[0100] Nucleic acid fingerprints can be stored or archived for later use. For example, replicated strands produced in the disclosed method can be physically stored, either in solution, frozen, or attached or adhered to a solid-state substrate such as an array. Storage in an array is useful for providing an archived probe set derived from the nucleic acids in any sample of interest. As another example, informational content of, or derived from, nucleic acid fingerprints can also be stored. Such information can be stored, for example, in or as computer readable media. Examples of informational content of nucleic acid fingerprints include nucleic acid sequence information (complete or partial); differential nucleic acid sequence information such as sequences present in one sample but not another; hybridization patterns of replicated strands to, for example, nucleic acid arrays, sets, chips, or other replicated strands. Numerous other data that is or can be derived from nucleic acid fingerprints and replicated strands produced in the disclosed method can also be collected, used, saved, stored, and/or archived.

[0101] Nucleic acid fingerprints can also contain or be made up of other information derived from the information generated in the disclosed method, and can be combined with information obtained or generated from any other source. The informational nature of nucleic acid fingerprints produced using the disclosed method lends itself to combination and/or analysis using known bioinformatics systems and methods.

[0102] Nucleic acid fingerprints of nucleic acid samples can be compared to a similar nucleic acid fingerprint derived from any other sample to detect similarities and differences in the samples (which is indicative of similarities and differences in the nucleic acids in the samples). For example, a nucleic acid fingerprint of a first nucleic acid sample can be compared to a nucleic acid fingerprint of a sample from the same type of organism as the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from the same type of tissue as the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from the same organism as the first nucleic acid sample, a sample obtained from the same source but at time different from that of the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from an organism different from that of the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from a type of tissue different from that of the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from a strain of organism different from that of the first nucleic acid sample, a sample from a species of organism different from that of the first nucleic acid sample, or a sample from a type of organism different from that of the first nucleic acid sample.

[0103] The same type of tissue is tissue of the same type such as liver tissue, muscle tissue, or skin (which may be from the same or a different organism or type of organism). The same organism refers to the same individual, animal, or cell. For example, two samples taken from a patient are from the same organism. The same source is similar but broader, referring to samples from, for example, the same organism, the same tissue from the same organism, the same nucleic acid molecule, the same nucleic acid library, the same DNA molecule, or the same DNA library. Samples from the same source that are to be compared can be collected at different times (thus allowing for potential changes over time to be detected). This is especially useful when the effect of a treatment or change in condition is to be assessed. Samples from the same source that have undergone different treatments can also be collected and compared using the disclosed method. A different organism refers to a different individual organism, such as a different patient, a different individual animal. Different organism includes a different organism of the same type or organisms of different types. A different type of organism refers to organisms of different types such as a dog and cat, a human and a mouse, or E. coli and Salmonella. A different type of tissue refers to tissues of different types such as liver and kidney, or skin and brain. A different strain or species of organism refers to organisms differing in their species or strain designation as those terms are understood in the art.

[0104] E. Lysis Solution

[0105] In preparing nucleic acid samples for use in the disclosed method, cells can be exposed to alkaline conditions by mixing the cells with a lysis solution. A lysis solution is generally a solution that can raise the pH of a cell solution sufficiently to cause cell lysis. Denaturing solutions can be used as lysis solutions so long as the denaturing solution can have the effects required of lysis solutions. In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprises a base, such as an aqueous base. Useful bases include potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium acetate, sodium acetate, ammonium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, ammonia, aniline, benzylamine, n-butylamine, diethylamine, dimethylamine, diphenylamine, ethylamine, ethylenediamine, methylamine, N-methylaniline, morpholine, pyridine, triethylamine, trimethylamine, aluminum hydroxide, rubidium hydroxide, cesium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide, barium hydroxide, and DBU (1,8-diazobicyclo5,4,0undec-7-ene). Useful formulations of lysis solution include lysis solution comprising 400 mM KOH, lysis solution comprising 400 mM KOH, 100 mM dithiothreitol, and 10 mM EDTA, and lysis solution consisting of 400 mM KOH, 100 mM dithiothreitol, and 10 mM EDTA.

[0106] In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a plurality of basic agents. As used herein, a basic agent is a compound, composition or solution that results in alkaline conditions. In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a buffer. Useful buffers include phosphate buffers, Good buffers (such as BES, BICINE, CAPS, EPPS, HEPES, MES, MOPS, PIPES, TAPS, TES, and TRICINE), sodium cacodylate, sodium citrate, triethylammonium acetate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, Tris, Bis-tris, and Bis-tris propane. The lysis solution can comprise a plurality of buffering agents. As used herein, a buffering agent is a compound, composition or solution that acts as a buffer. An alkaline buffering agent is a buffering agent that results in alkaline conditions. In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a combination of one or more bases, basic agents, buffers and buffering agents.

[0107] The amount of lysis solution mixed with the cells can be that amount that causes a substantial number of cells to lyse or those that cause a sufficient number of cells to lyse. Generally, this volume will be a function of the pH of the cell/lysis solution mixture. Thus, the amount of lysis solution to mix with cells can be determined generally from the volume of the cells and the alkaline concentration of the lysis buffer. For example, a smaller volume of a lysis solution with a stronger base and/or higher concentration of base would be needed to create sufficient alkaline conditions than the volume needed of a lysis solution with a weaker base and/or lower concentration of base. The lysis solution can be formulated such that the cells are mixed with an equal volume of the lysis solution (to produce the desired alkaline conditions).

[0108] For example, lysis solutions can be solutions that have a pH of from about 9.0 to about 13.0, from about 9.5 to about 13.0, from about 10.0 to about 13.0, from about 10.5 to about 13.0, from about 11.0 to about 13.0, from about 11.5 to about 13.0, from about 12.0 to about 13.0, from about 9.0 to about 12.0, from about 9.5 to about 12.0, from about 10.0 to about 12.0, from about 10.5 to about 12.0, from about 11.0 to about 12.0, from about 11.5 to about 12.0, from about 9.0 to about 11.5, from about 9.5 to about 11.5, from about 10.0 to about 11.5, from about 10.5 to about 11.5, from about 11.0 to about 11.5, from about 9.0 to about 11.0, from about 9.5 to about 11.0, from about 10.0 to about 11.0, from about 10.5 to about 11.0, from about 9.0 to about 10.5, from about 9.5 to about 10.5, from about 10.0 to about 10.5, from about 9.0 to about 10.0, from about 9.5 to about 10.0, from about 9.0 to about 9.5, about 9.0, about 9.5, about 10.0, about 10.5, about 11.0, about 11.5, about 12.0, about 12.5, or about 13.0.

[0109] Lysis solutions can have, for example, component concentrations of from about 10 mM to about 1 M, from about 10 mM to about 900 mM, from about 10 mM to about 800 mM, from about 10 mM to about 700 mM, from about 10 mM to about 600 mM, from about 10 mM to about 500 mM, from about 10 mM to about 400 mM, from about 10 mM to about 300 mM, from about 10 mM to about 200 mM, from about 10 mM to about 100 mM, from about 10 mM to about 90 mM, from about 10 mM to about 80 mM, from about 10 mM to about 70 mM, from about 10 mM to about 60 mM, from about 10 mM to about 50 mM, from about 10 mM to about 40 mM, from about 10 mM to about 30 mM, from about 10 mM to about 20 mM, from about 20 mM to about 1 M, from about 20 mM to about 900 mM, from about 20 mM to about 800 mM, from about 20 mM to about 700 mM, from about 20 mM to about 600 mM, from about 20 mM to about 500 mM, from about 20 mM to about 400 mM, from about 20 mM to about 300 mM, from about 20 mM to about 200 mM, from about 20 mM to about 100 mM, from about 20 mM to about 90 mM, from about 20 mM to about 80 mM, from about 20 mM to about 70 mM, from about 20 mM to about 60 mM, from about 20 mM to about 50 mM, from about 20 mM to about 40 mM, from about 20 mM to about 30 mM, from about 30 mM to about 1 M, from about 30 mM to about 900 mM, from about 30 mM to about 800 mM, from about 30 mM to about 700 mM, from about 30 mM to about 600 mM, from about 30 mM to about 500 mM, from about 30 mM to about 400 mM, from about 30 mM to about 300 mM, from about 30 mM to about 200 mM, from about 30 mM to about 100 mM, from about 30 mM to about 90 mM, from about 30 mM to about 80 mM, from about 30 mM to about 70 mM, from about 30 mM to about 60 mM, from about 30 mM to about 50 mM, from about 30 mM to about 40 mM, from about 40 mM to about 1 M, from about 40 mM to about 900 mM, from about 40 mM to about 800 mM, from about 40 mM to about 700 mM, from about 40 mM to about 600 mM, from about 40 mM to about 500 mM, from about 40 mM to about 400 mM, from about 40 mM to about 300 mM, from about 40 mM to about 200 mM, from about 40 mM to about 100 mM, from about 40 mM to about 90 mM, from about 40 mM to about 80 mM, from about 40 mM to about 70 mM, from about 40 mM to about 60 mM, from about 40 mM to about 50 mM, from about 50 mM to about 1 M, from about 50 mM to about 900 mM, from about 50 mM to about 800 mM, from about 50 mM to about 700 mM, from about 50 mM to about 600 mM, from about 50 mM to about 500 mM, from about 50 mM to about 400 mM, from about 50 mM to about 300 mM, from about 50 mM to about 200 mM, from about 50 mM to about 100 mM, from about 50 mM to about 90 mM, from about 50 mM to about 80 mM, from about 50 mM to about 70 mM, from about 50 mM to about 60 mM, from about 60 mM to about 1 M, from about 60 mM to about 900 mM, from about 60 mM to about 800 mM, from about 60 mM to about 700 mM, from about 60 mM to about 600 mM, from about 60 mM to about 500 mM, from about 60 mM to about 400 mM, from about 60 mM to about 300 mM, from about 60 mM to about 200 mM, from about 60 mM to about 100 mM, from about 60 mM to about 90 mM, from about 60 mM to about 80 mM, from about 60 mM to about 70 mM, from about 70 mM to about 1 M, from about 70 mM to about 900 mM, from about 70 mM to about 800 mM, from about 70 mM to about 700 mM, from about 70 mM to about 600 mM, from about 70 mM to about 500 mM, from about 70 mM to about 400 mM, from about 70 mM to about 300 mM, from about 70 mM to about 200 mM, from about 70 mM to about 100 mM, from about 70 mM to about 90 mM, from about 70 mM to about 80 mM, from about 80 mM to about 1 M, from about 80 mM to about 900 mM, from about 80 mM to about 800 mM, from about 80 mM to about 700 mM, from about 80 mM to about 600 mM, from about 80 mM to about 500 mM, from about 80 mM to about 400 mM, from about 80 mM to about 300 mM, from about 80 mM to about 200 mM, from about 80 mM to about 100 mM, from about 80 mM to about 90 mM, from about 90 mM to about 1 M, from about 90 mM to about 900 mM, from about 90 mM to about 800 mM, from about 90 mM to about 700 mM, from about 90 mM to about 600 mM, from about 90 mM to about 500 mM, from about 90 mM to about 400 mM, from about 90 mM to about 300 mM, from about 90 mM to about 200 mM, from about 90 mM to about 100 mM, from about 100 mM to about 1 M, from about 100 mM to about 900 mM, from about 100 mM to about 800 mM, from about 100 mM to about 700 mM, from about 100 mM to about 600 mM, from about 100 mM to about 500 mM, from about 100 mM to about 400 mM, from about 100 mM to about 300 mM, from about 100 mM to about 200 mM, from about 200 mM to about 1 M, from about 200 mM to about 900 mM, from about 200 mM to about 800 mM, from about 200 mM to about 700 mM, from about 200 mM to about 600 mM, from about 200 mM to about 500 mM, from about 200 mM to about 400 mM, from about 200 mM to about 300 mM, from about 300 mM to about 1 M, from about 300 mM to about 900 mM, from about 300 mM to about 800 mM, from about 300 mM to about 700 mM, from about 300 mM to about 600 mM, from about 300 mM to about 500 mM, from about 300 mM to about 400 mM, from about 400 mM to about 1 M, from about 400 mM to about 900 mM, from about 400 mM to about 800 mM, from about 400 mM to about 700 mM, from about 400 mM to about 600 mM, from about 400 mM to about 500 mM, from about 500 mM to about 1 M, from about 500 mM to about 900 mM, from about 500 mM to about 800 mM, from about 500 mM to about 700 mM, from about 500 mM to about 600 mM, from about 600 mM to about 1 M, from about 600 mM to about 900 mM, from about 600 mM to about 800 mM, from about 600 mM to about 700 mM, from about 700 mM to about 1 M, from about 700 mM to about 900 mM, from about 700 mM to about 800 mM, from about 800 mM to about-1 M, from about 800 mM to about 900 mM, from about 900 mM to about 1 M, about 10 mM, about 20 mM, about 30 mM, about 40 mM, about 50 mM, about 60 mM, about 70 mM, about 80 mM, about 90 mM, about 100 mM, about 200 mM, about 300 mM, about 400 mM, about 500 mM, about 600 mM, about 700 mM, about 800 mM, about 900 mM, or about 1 M.

[0110] The lysis solution can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components that can be added to cells separately or combined in different combinations prior to addition to cells. Thus, for example, a solution of 400 mM KOH and 10 mM EDTA and a solution of 100 mM dithiothreitol can be added to the cells separately. Similarly, the disclosed kits can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components to be combined to form a lysis solution prior to addition to cells or for separate addition to cells.

[0111] F. Stabilization Solution

[0112] In preparing nucleic acid samples for use in the disclosed method, the pH of the cell lysate can be reduced to form a stabilized cell lysate. A stabilization solution is generally a solution that can reduce the pH of a cell lysate exposed to alkaline conditions as described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise an acid. Useful acids include hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, ascorbic acid, carbonic acid, citric acid, formic acid, nitric acid, perchloric acid, HF, HBr, HI, H₂S, HCN, HSCN, HClO, monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, and any carboxylic acid (ethanoic, propanoic, butanoic, etc., including both linear or branched chain carboxylic acids). In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a buffer. Useful buffers include Tris-HCl, HEPES, Good buffers (such as BES, BICINE, CAPS, EPPS, HEPES, MES, MOPS, PIPES, TAPS, TES, and TRICINE), sodium cacodylate, sodium citrate, triethylammonium acetate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, Tris, Bis-tris, and Bis-tris propane. Useful formulations of stabilization solutions include stabilization solution comprising 800 mM Tris-HCl; stabilization solution comprising 800 mM Tris-HCl at pH 4.1, and stabilization solution consisting of 800 mM Tris-HCl, pH 4.1.

[0113] In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a plurality of acidic agents. As used herein, an acidic agent is a compound, composition or solution that forms an acid in solution. In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a plurality of buffering agents. An acidic buffering agent is a buffering agent that forms an acid in solution. In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a combination of one or more acids, acidic agents, buffers and buffering agents.

[0114] A stabilized cell lysate is a cell lysate the pH of which is in the neutral range (from about pH 6.0 to about pH 9.0). Useful stabilized cell lysates have a pH that allows replication of nucleic acids in the cell lysate. For example, the pH of the stabilized cell lysate is usefully at a pH at which the DNA polymerase can function. The pH of the cell lysate can be reduced by mixing the cell lysate with a stabilization solution.

[0115] The amount of stabilization solution mixed with the cell lysate can be that amount that causes a reduction in pH to the neutral range (or other desired pH value). Generally, this volume will be a function of the pH of the cell lysate/stabilization solution mixture. Thus, the amount of stabilization solution to mix with the cell lysate can be determined generally from the volume of the cell lysate, its pH and buffering capacity, and the acidic concentration of the stabilization buffer. For example, a smaller volume of a stabilization solution with a stronger acid and/or higher concentration of acid would be needed to reduce the pH sufficiently than the volume needed of a stabilization solution with a weaker acid and/or lower concentration of acid. The stabilization solution can be formulated such that the cell lysate is mixed with an equal volume of the stabilization solution (to produce the desired pH).

[0116] For example, stabilization solutions can be solutions that have a pH of from about 1.0 to about 6.0, from about 2.0 to about 6.0, from about 3.0 to about 6.0, from about 3.5 to about 6.0, from about 4.0 to about 6.0, from about 4.5 to about 6.0, from about 5.0 to about 6.0, from about 5.5 to about 6.0, from about 1.0 to about 5.5, from about 2.0 to about 5.5, from about 3.0 to about 5.5, from about 3.5 to about 5.5, from about 4.0 to about 5.5, from about 4.5 to about 5.5, from about 5.0 to about 5.5, from about 1.0 to about 5.0, from about 2.0 to about 5.0, from about 3.0 to about 5.0, from about 3.5 to about 5.0, from about 4.0 to about 5.0, from about 4.5 to about 5.0, from about 1.0 to about 4.5, from about 2.0 to about 4.5, from about 3.0 to about 4.5, from about 3.5 to about 4.5, from about 4.0 to about 4.5, from about 1.0 to about 4.0, from about 2.0 to about 4.0, from about 3.0 to about 4.0, from about 3.5 to about 4.0, from about 1.0 to about 3.5, from about 2.0 to about 3.5, from about 3.0 to about 3.5, from about 1.0 to about 3.0, from about 2.0 to about 3.0, from about 1.0 to about 2.5, from about 2.0 to about 2.5, from about 1.0 to about 2.0, about 1.0, about 2.0, about 2.5, about 3.0, about 3.5, about 4.0, about 4.5, about 5.0, about 5.5, or about 6.0.

[0117] Stabilization solutions can have, for example, component concentrations of from about 100 mM to about 1 M, from about 100 mM to about 900 mM, from about 100 mM to about 800 mM, from about 100 mM to about 700 mM, from about 100 mM to about 600 mM, from about 100 mM to about 500 mM, from about 100 mM to about 400 mM, from about 100 mM to about 300 mM, from about 100 mM to about 200 mM, from about 200 mM to about 1 M, from about 200 mM to about 900 mM, from about 200 mM to about 800 mM, from about 200 mM to about 700 mM, from about 200 mM to about 600 mM, from about 200 mM to about 500 mM, from about 200 mM to about 400 mM, from about 200 mM to about 300 mM, from about 300 mM to about 1 M, from about 300 mM to about 900 mM, from about 300 mM to about 800 mM, from about 300 mM to about 700 mM, from about 300 mM to about 600 mM, from about 300 mM to about 500 mM, from about 300 mM to about 400 mM, from about 400 mM to about 1 M, from about 400 mM to about 900 mM, from about 400 mM to about 800 mM, from about 400 mM to about 700 mM, from about 400 mM to about 600 mM, from about 400 mM to about 500 mM, from about 500 mM to about 1 M, from about 500 mM to about 900 mM, from about 500 mM to about 800 mM, from about 500 mM to about 700 mM, from about 500 mM to about 600 mM, from about 600 mM to about 1 M, from about 600 mM to about 900 mM, from about 600 mM to about 800 mM, from about 600 mM to about 700 mM, from about 700 mM to about 1 M, from about 700 mM to about 900 mM, from about 700 mM to about 800 mM, from about 800 mM to about 1 M, from about 800 mM to about 900 mM, from about 900 mM to about 1 M, about 100 mM, about 200 mM, about 300 mM, about 400 mM, about 500 mM, about 600 mM, about 700 mM, about 800 mM, about 900 mM, or about 1 M.

[0118] The stabilization solution can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components that can be added to cell lysates separately or combined in different combinations prior to addition to cell lysates. Thus, for example, a solution of a buffer and a solution of an acid can be added to the cells separately. Similarly, the disclosed kits can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components to be combined to form a stabilization solution prior to addition to cell lysates or for separate addition to cell lysates.

[0119] G. Denaturing Solution

[0120] In some forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid samples can be exposed to denaturing conditions by mixing the sample with a denaturing solution. A denaturing solution is generally a solution that can raise the pH of a sample sufficiently to cause, in combination with other conditions such as heating, substantial denaturation of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. Substantial denaturation refers to denaturation of 90% or more of the nucleotides in 90% or more of the nucleic acid molecules in a sample. In this context, denaturation of nucleotides refers to unpaired nucleotides whether physically denatured by treatment or already unpaired in the sample. Lysis solutions can be used as denaturing solutions so long as the lysis solution has the effects required of denaturing solutions.

[0121] In some embodiments, the denaturing solution can comprises a base, such as an aqueous base. Useful bases include potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium acetate, sodium acetate, ammonium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, ammonia, aniline, benzylamine, n-butylamine, diethylamine, dimethylamine, diphenylamine, ethylamine, ethylenediamine, methylamine, N-methylaniline, morpholine, pyridine, triethylamine, trimethylamine, aluminum hydroxide, rubidium hydroxide, cesium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide, barium hydroxide, and DBU (1,8-diazobicyclo5,4,0undec-7-ene). Useful formulations of denaturing solution include denaturing solution comprising about 150 mM to about 500 mM NaOH, denaturing solution comprising about 150 mM to about 500 mM NaOH, and denaturing solution consisting of about 150 mM to about 500 mM NaOH.

[0122] In some embodiments, the denaturing solution can comprise a plurality of basic agents. As used herein, a basic agent is a compound, composition or solution that results in denaturing conditions. In some embodiments, the denaturing solution can comprise a buffer. Useful buffers include phosphate buffers, Good buffers (such as BES, BICINE, CAPS, EPPS, HEPES, MES, MOPS, PIPES, TAPS, TES, and TRICINE), sodium cacodylate, sodium citrate, triethylammonium acetate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, Tris, Bis-tris, and Bis-tris propane. The denaturing solution can comprise a plurality of buffering agents. As used herein, a buffering agent is a compound, composition or solution that acts as a buffer. An alkaline buffering agent is a buffering agent that results in alkaline conditions. In some embodiments, the denaturing solution can comprise a combination of one or more bases, basic agents, buffers and buffering agents.

[0123] The amount of denaturing solution mixed with the nucleic acid samples can be that amount that causes, in combination with other conditions such as heating, substantial denaturation of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. Generally, this volume will be a function of the pH, ionic strength, and temperature of the sample/denaturing solution mixture. Thus, the amount of denaturing solution to mix with nucleic acid samples can be determined generally from the volume of the nucleic acid sample, the alkaline concentration of the denaturing buffer, and the temperature to which the resulting mixture will be heated. For example, at a given temperature, a smaller volume of a denaturing solution with a stronger base and/or higher concentration of base would be needed to create sufficient denaturing conditions than the volume needed of a denaturing solution with a weaker base and/or lower concentration of base. The denaturing solution can be formulated such that the nucleic acid samples are mixed with, for example, one tenth volume of the denaturing solution (to produce the desired denaturing conditions).

[0124] For example, denaturing solutions can be solutions that have a pH of from about 9.0 to about 13.0, from about 9.5 to about 13.0, from about 10.0 to about 13.0, from about 10.5 to about 13.0, from about 11.0 to about 13.0, from about 11.5 to about 13.0, from about 12.0 to about 13.0, from about 9.0 to about 12.0, from about 9.5 to about 12.0, from about 10.0 to about 12.0, from about 10.5 to about 12.0, from about 11.0 to about 12.0, from about 11.5 to about 12.0, from about 9.0 to about 11.5, from about 9.5 to about 11.5, from about 10.0 to about 11.5, from about 10.5 to about 11.5, from about 11.0 to about 11.5, from about 9.0 to about 11.0, from about 9.5 to about 11.0, from about 10.0 to about 11.0, from about 10.5 to about 11.0, from about 9.0 to about 10.5, from about 9.5 to about 10.5, from about 10.0 to about 10.5, from about 9.0 to about 10.0, from about 9.5 to about 10.0, from about 9.0 to about 9.5, about 9.0, about 9.5, about 10.0, about 10.5, about 11.0, about 11.5, about 12.0, about 12.5, or about 13.0.

[0125] Denaturing solutions can have, for example, component concentrations of from about 10 mM to about 1 M, from about 10 mM to about 900 mM, from about 10 MM to about 800 mM, from about 10 mM to about 700 mM, from about 10 mM to about 600 mM, from about 10 mM to about 500 mM, from about 10 mM to about 400 mM, from about 10 mM to about 300 mM, from about 10 mM to about 200 mM, from about 10 mM to about 100 mM, from about 10 mM to about 90 mM, from about 10 mM to about 80 mM, from about 10 mM to about 70 mM, from about 10 mM to about 60 mM, from about 10 mM to about 50 mM, from about 10 mM to about 40 mM, from about 10 mM to about 30 mM, from about 10 mM to about 20 mM, from about 20 mM to about 1 M, from about 20 mM to about 900 mM, from about 20 mM to about 800 mM, from about 20 mM to about 700 mM, from about 20 mM to about 600 mM, from about 20 mM to about 500 mM, from about 20 mM to about 400 mM, from about 20 mM to about 300 mM, from about 20 mM to about 200 mM, from about 20 mM to about 100 mM, from about 20 mM to about 90 mM, from about 20 mM to about 80 mM, from about 20 mM to about 70 mM, from about 20 mM to about 60 mM, from about 20 mM to about 50 mM, from about 20 mM to about 40 mM, from about 20 mM to about 30 mM, from about 30 mM to about 1 M, from about 30 mM to about 900 mM, from about 30 mM to about 800 mM, from about 30 mM to about 700 mM, from about 30 mM to about 600 mM, from about 30 mM to about 500 mM, from about 30 mM to about 400 mM, from about 30 mM to about 300 mM, from about 30 mM to about 200 mM, from about 30 mM to about 100 mM, from about 30 mM to about 90 mM, from about 30 mM to about 80 mM, from about 30 mM to about 70 mM, from about 30 mM to about 60 mM, from about 30 mM to about 50 mM, from about 30 mM to about 40 mM, from about 40 mM to about 1 M, from about 40 mM to about 900 mM, from about 40 mM to about 800 mM, from about 40 mM to about 700 mM, from about 40 mM to about 600 mM, from about 40 mM to about 500 mM, from about 40 mM to about 400 mM, from about 40 mM to about 300 mM, from about 40 mM to about 200 mM, from about 40 mM to about 100 mM, from about 40 mM to about 90 mM, from about 40 mM to about 80 mM, from about 40 mM to about 70 mM, from about 40 mM to about 60 mM, from about 40 mM to about 50 mM, from about 50 mM to about 1 M, from about 50 mM to about 900 mM, from about 50 mM to about 800 mM, from about 50 mM to about 700 mM, from about 50 mM to about 600 mM, from about 50 mM to about 500 mM, from about 50 mM to about 400 mM, from about 50 mM to about 300 mM, from about 50 mM to about 200 mM, from about 50 mM to about 100 mM, from about 50 mM to about 90 mM, from about 50 mM to about 80 mM, from about 50 mM to about 70 mM, from about 50 mM to about 60 mM, from about 60 mM to about 1 M, from about 60 mM to about 900 mM, from about 60 mM to about 800 mM, from about 60 mM to about 700 mM, from about 60 mM to about 600 mM, from about 60 mM to about 500 mM, from about 60 mM to about 400 mM, from about 60 mM to about 300 mM, from about 60 mM to about 200 mM, from about 60 mM to about 100 mM, from about 60 mM to about 90 mM, from about 60 mM to about 80 mM, from about 60 mM to about 70 mM, from about 70 mM to about 1 M, from about 70 mM to about 900 mM, from about 70 mM to about 800 mM, from about 70 mM to about 700 mM, from about 70 mM to about 600 mM, from about 70 mM to about 500 mM, from about 70 mM to about 400 mM, from about 70 mM to about 300 mM, from about 70 mM to about 200 mM, from about 70 mM to about 100 mM, from about 70 mM to about 90 mM, from about 70 mM to about 80 mM, from about 80 mM to about 1 M, from about 80 mM to about 900 mM, from about 80 mM to about 800 mM, from about 80 mM to about 700 mM, from about 80 mM to about 600 mM, from about 80 mM to about 500 mM, from about 80 mM to about 400 mM, from about 80 mM to about 300 mM, from about 80 mM to about 200 mM, from about 80 mM to about 100 mM, from about 80 mM to about 90 mM, from about 90 mM to about 1 M, from about 90 mM to about 900 mM, from about 90 mM to about 800 mM, from about 90 mM to about 700 mM, from about 90 mM to about 600 mM, from about 90 mM to about 500 mM, from about 90 mM to about 400 mM, from about 90 mM to about 300 mM, from about 90 mM to about 200 mM, from about 90 mM to about 100 mM, from about 100 mM to about 1 M, from about 100 mM to about 900 mM, from about 100 mM to about 800 mM, from about 100 mM to about 700 mM, from about 100 mM to about 600 mM, from about 100 mM to about 500 mM, from about 100 mM to about 400 mM, from about 100 mM to about 300 mM, from about 100 mM to about 200 mM, from about 200 mM to about 1 M, from about 200 mM to about, 900 mM, from about 200 mM to about 800 mM, from about 200 mM to about 700 mM, from about 200 mM to about 600 mM, from about 200 mM to about 500 mM, from about 200 mM to about 400 mM, from about 200 mM to about 300 mM, from about 300 mM to about 1 M, from about 300 mM to about 900 mM, from about 300 mM to about 800 mM, from about 300 mM to about 700 mM, from about 300 mM to about 600 mM, from about 300 mM to about 500 mM, from about 300 mM to about 400 mM, from about 400 mM to about 1 M; from about 400 mM to about 900 mM, from about 400 mM to about 800 mM, from about 400 mM to about 700 mM, from about 400 mM to about 600 mM, from about 400 mM to about 500 mM, from about 500 mM to about 1 M, from about 500 mM to about 900 mM, from about 500 mM to about 800 mM, from about 500 mM to about 700 mM, from about 500 mM to about 600 mM, from about 600 mM to about 1 M, from about 600 mM to about 900 mM, from about 600 mM to about 800 mM, from about 600 mM to about 700 mM, from about 700 mM to about 1 M, from about 700 mM to about 900 mM, from about 700 mM to about 800 mM, from about 800 mM to about 1 M, from about 800 mM to about 900 mM, from about 900 mM to about 1 M, about 10 mM, about 20 mM, about 30 mM, about 40 mM, about 50 mM, about 60 mM, about 70 mM, about 80 mM, about 90 mM, about 100 mM, about 200 mM, about 300 mM, about 400 mM, about 500 mM, about 600 mM, about 700 mM, about 800 mM, about 900 mM, or about 1 M.

[0126] The denaturing solution can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components that can be added to nucleic acid samples separately or combined in different combinations prior to addition to nucleic acid samples. Thus, for example, a solution of a buffer and a solution of a base can be added to the samples separately. Similarly, the disclosed kits can be composed of multiple solutions and/or components to be combined to form a denaturing solution prior to addition to nucleic acid samples or for separate addition to samples.

[0127] H. Solid-State Detectors

[0128] Solid-state detectors are solid-state substrates or supports to which address probes or detection molecules have been coupled. A preferred form of solid-state detector is an array detector. An array detector is a solid-state detector to which multiple different address probes or detection molecules have been coupled in an array, grid, or other organized pattern.

[0129] Solid-state substrates for use in solid-state detectors can include any solid material to which oligonucleotides can be coupled. This includes materials such as acrylamide, cellulose, nitrocellulose, glass, gold, polystyrene, polyethylene vinyl acetate, polypropylene, polymethacrylate, polyethylene, polyethylene oxide, glass, polysilicates, polycarbonates, teflon, fluorocarbons, nylon, silicon rubber, polyanhydrides, polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, polyorthoesters, functionalized silane, polypropylfumerate, collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and polyamino acids. Solid-state substrates can have any useful form including thin films or membranes, beads, bottles, dishes, fibers, optical fibers, woven fibers, chips, compact disks, shaped polymers, particles and microparticles. A chip is a rectangular or square small piece of material. Preferred forms for solid-state substrates are thin films, beads, or chips.

[0130] Address probes immobilized on a solid-state substrate allow capture of the products of the disclosed amplification method on a solid-state detector. Such capture provides a convenient means of washing away reaction components that might interfere with subsequent detection steps. By attaching different address probes to different regions of a solid-state detector, different amplification products can be captured at different, and therefore diagnostic, locations on the solid-state detector. For example, in a multiplex assay, address probes specific for numerous different amplified nucleic acids can be immobilized in an array, each in a different location. Capture and detection will occur only at those array locations corresponding to amplified nucleic acids for which the corresponding target sequences were present in a sample.

[0131] Methods for immobilization of oligonucleotides to solid-state substrates are well established. Oligonucleotides, including address probes and detection probes, can be coupled to substrates using established coupling methods. For example, suitable attachment methods are described by Pease et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 91(11):5022-5026 (1994), and Khrapko et al., Mol Biol (Mosk) (USSR) 25:718-730 (1991). A method for immobilization of 3-amine oligonucleotides on casein-coated slides is described by Stimpson et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 92:6379-6383 (1995). A preferred method of attaching oligonucleotides to solid-state substrates is described by Guo et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 22:5456-5465 (1994). Examples of nucleic acid chips and arrays, including methods of making and using such chips and arrays, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,768, U.S. Pat. No. 6,288,220, U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,776, U.S. Pat. No. 6,297,006, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,291,193.

[0132] I. Detection Labels

[0133] To aid in detection and quantitation of nucleic acids amplified using the disclosed method, detection labels can be directly incorporated into amplified nucleic acids or can be coupled to detection molecules. As used herein, a detection label is any molecule that can be associated with amplified nucleic acid, directly or indirectly, and which results in a measurable, detectable signal, either directly or indirectly. Many such labels for incorporation into nucleic acids or coupling to nucleic acid probes are known to those of skill in the art. Examples of detection labels suitable for use in the disclosed method are radioactive isotopes, fluorescent molecules, phosphorescent molecules, enzymes, antibodies, and ligands.

[0134] Examples of suitable fluorescent labels include fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), 5,6-carboxymethyl fluorescein, Texas red, nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl (NBD), coumarin, dansyl chloride, rhodamine, amino-methyl coumarin (AMCA), Eosin, Erythrosin, BODIPY, Cascade Blue, Oregon Green, pyrene, lissamine, xanthenes, acridines, oxazines, phycoerythrin, macrocyclic chelates of lanthamide ions such as quantum dye, fluorescent energy transfer dyes, such as thiazole orange-ethidium heterodimer, and the cyanine dyes Cy3, Cy3.5, Cy5, Cy5.5 and Cy7. Examples of other specific fluorescent labels include 3-Hydroxypyrene 5,8,10-Tri Sulfonic acid, 5-Hydroxy Tryptamine (5-HT), Acid Fuchsin, Alizarin Complexon, Alizarin Red, Allophycocyanin, Aminocoumarin, Anthroyl Stearate, Astrazon Brilliant Red 4G, Astrazon Orange R, Astrazon Red 6B, Astrazon Yellow 7 GLL, Atabrine, Auramine, Aurophosphine, Aurophosphine G, BAO 9 (Bisaminophenyloxadiazole), BCECF, Berberine Sulphate, Bisbenzamide, Blancophor FFG Solution, Blancophor SV, Bodipy F1, Brilliant Sulphoflavin FF, Calcien Blue, Calcium Green, Calcofluor RW Solution, Calcofluor White, Calcophor White ABT Solution, Calcophor White Standard Solution, Carbostyryl, Cascade Yellow, Catecholamine, Chinacrine, Coriphosphine O, Coumarin-Phalloidin, CY3.1 8, CY5.1 8, CY7, Dans (1-Dimethyl Amino Naphaline 5 Sulphonic Acid), Dansa (Diamino Naphtyl Sulphonic Acid), Dansyl NHCH3, Diamino Phenyl Oxydiazole (DAO), Dimethylamino-5-Sulphonic acid, Dipyrrometheneboron Difluoride, Diphenyl Brilliant Flavine 7GFF, Dopamine, Erythrosin ITC, Euchrysin, FIF (Formaldehyde Induced Fluorescence), Flazo Orange, Fluo 3, Fluorescamine, Fura-2, Genacryl Brilliant Red B, Genacryl Brilliant Yellow 10GF, Genacryl Pink 3G, Genacryl Yellow 5GF, Gloxalic Acid, Granular Blue, Haematoporphyrin, Indo-1, Intrawhite Cf Liquid, Leucophor PAF, Leucophor SF, Leucophor WS, Lissamine Rhodamine B200 (RD200), Lucifer Yellow CH, Lucifer Yellow VS, Magdala Red, Marina Blue, Maxilon Brilliant Flavin 10 GFF, Maxilon Brilliant Flavin 8 GFF, MPS (Methyl Green Pyronine Stilbene), Mithramycin, NBD Amine, Nitrobenzoxadidole, Noradrenaline, Nuclear Fast Red, Nuclear Yellow, Nylosan Brilliant Flavin E8G, Oxadiazole, Pacific Blue, Pararosaniline (Feulgen), Phorwite AR Solution, Phorwite BKL, Phorwite Rev, Phorwite RPA, Phosphine 3R, Phthalocyanine, Phycoerythrin R, Polyazaindacene Pontochrome Blue Black, Porphyrin, Primuline, Procion Yellow, Pyronine, Pyronine B, Pyrozal Brilliant Flavin 7GF, Quinacrine Mustard, Rhodamine 123, Rhodamine 5 GLD, Rhodamine 6G, Rhodamine B, Rhodamine B 200, Rhodamine B Extra, Rhodamine BB, Rhodamine BG, Rhodamine WT, Serotonin, Sevron Brilliant Red 2B, Sevron Brilliant Red 4G, Sevron Brilliant Red B, Sevron Orange, Sevron Yellow L, SITS (Primuline), SITS (Stilbene Isothiosulphonic acid), Stilbene, Snarf 1, sulpho Rhodamine B Can C, Sulpho Rhodamine G Extra, Tetracycline, Thiazine Red R, Thioflavin S, Thioflavin TCN, Thioflavin 5, Thiolyte, Thiozol Orange, Tinopol CBS, True Blue, Ultralite, Uranine B, Uvitex SFC, Xylene Orange, and XRITC.

[0135] Preferred fluorescent labels are fluorescein (5-carboxyfluorescein-N-hydroxysuccinimide ester), rhodamine (5,6-tetramethyl rhodamine), and the cyanine dyes Cy3, Cy3.5, Cy5, Cy5.5 and Cy7. The absorption and emission maxima, respectively, for these fluors are: FITC (490 run; 520 nm), Cy3 (554 nm; 568 nm), Cy3.5 (581 nm; 588 nm), Cy5 (652 nm: 672 nm), Cy5.5 (682 nm; 703 nm) and Cy7 (755 nm; 778 nm), thus allowing their simultaneous detection. Other examples of fluorescein dyes include 6-carboxyfluorescein (6-FAM), 2,4,1,4,-tetrachlorofluorescein (TET), 2,4,5,7,1,4-hexachlorofluorescein (HEX), 2,7-dimethoxy-4,5-dichloro-6-carboxyrhodamine (JOE), 2-chloro-5-fluoro-7,8-fused phenyl-1,4-dichloro-6-carboxyfluorescein (NED), and 2-chloro-7-phenyl-1,4-dichloro-6-carboxyfluorescein (VIC). Fluorescent labels can be obtained from a variety of commercial sources, including Amersham Pharmacia Biotech, Piscataway, N.J.; Molecular Probes, Eugene, Oreg.; and Research Organics, Cleveland, Ohio.

[0136] Additional labels of interest include those that provide for signal only when the probe with which they are associated is specifically bound to a target molecule or sequence, where such labels include: molecular beacons as described in Tyagi & Kramer, Nature Biotechnology (1996) 14:303 and EP 0 070 685 B1, or other forms of fluorescent change probes. Other labels of interest include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,037; WO 97/17471 and WO 97/17076.

[0137] Labeled nucleotides are a useful form of detection label since they can be directly incorporated into the amplification products during synthesis. Examples of detection labels that can be incorporated into amplified nucleic acids include nucleotide analogs such as BrdUrd (5-bromodeoxyuridine, Hoy and Schimke, Mutation Research 290:217-230 (1993)), aminoallyldeoxyuridine (Henegariu et al., Nature Biotechnology 18:345-348 (2000)), 5-methylcytosine (Sano et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 951:157-165 (1988)), bromouridine (Wansick et al., J. Cell Biology 122:283-293 (1993)) and nucleotides modified with biotin (Langer et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 78:6633 (1981)) or with suitable haptens such as digoxygenin (Kerkhof, Anal. Biochem. 205:359-364 (1992)). Suitable fluorescence-labeled nucleotides are Fluorescein-isothiocyanate-dUTP, Cyanine-3-dUTP and Cyanine-5-dUTP (Yu et al., Nucleic Acids Res., 22:3226-3232 (1994)). A preferred nucleotide analog detection label for DNA is BrdUrd (bromodeoxyuridine, BrdUrd, BrdU, BUdR, Sigma-Aldrich Co). Other preferred nucleotide analogs for incorporation of detection label into DNA are AA-dUTP (aminoallyl-deoxyuridine triphosphate, Sigma-Aldrich Co.), and 5-methyl-dCTP (Roche Molecular Biochemicals). A preferred nucleotide analog for incorporation of detection label into RNA is biotin-16-UTP (biotin-16-uridine-5-triphosphate, Roche Molecular Biochemicals). Fluorescein, Cy3, and Cy5 can be linked to dUTP for direct labeling. Cy3.5 and Cy7 are available as avidin or anti-digoxygenin conjugates for secondary detection of biotin- or digoxygenin-labeled probes.

[0138] Detection labels that are incorporated into amplified nucleic acid, such as biotin, can be subsequently detected using sensitive methods well-known in the art. For example, biotin can be detected using streptavidin-alkaline phosphatase conjugate (Tropix, Inc.), which is bound to the biotin and subsequently detected by chemiluminescence of suitable substrates (for example, chemiluminescent substrate CSPD: disodium, 3-(4-methoxyspiro-1,2,-dioxetane-3-2-(5-chloro)tricyclo 3.3.1.1^3,7decane-4-yl)phenyl phosphate; Tropix, Inc.). Labels can also be enzymes, such as alkaline phosphatase, soybean peroxidase, horseradish peroxidase and polymerases, that can be detected, for example, with chemical signal amplification or by using a substrate to the enzyme which produces light (for example, a chemiluminescent 1,2-dioxetane substrate) or fluorescent signal.

[0139] Molecules that combine two or more of these detection labels are also considered detection labels. Any of the known detection labels can be used with the disclosed probes, tags, and method to label and detect nucleic acid amplified using the disclosed method. Methods for detecting and measuring signals generated by detection labels are also known to those of skill in the art. For example, radioactive isotopes can be detected by scintillation counting or direct visualization; fluorescent molecules can be detected with fluorescent spectrophotometers; phosphorescent molecules can be detected with a spectrophotometer or directly visualized with a camera; enzymes can be detected by detection or visualization of the product of a reaction catalyzed by the enzyme; antibodies can be detected by detecting a secondary detection label coupled to the antibody. As used herein, detection molecules are molecules which interact with amplified nucleic acid and to which one or more detection labels are coupled.

[0140] J. Detection Probes

[0141] Detection probes are labeled oligonucleotides having sequence complementary to target sequences and/or detection tags on amplified nucleic acids. The complementary portion of a detection probe can be any length that supports specific and stable hybridization between the detection probe and the detection tag. For this purpose, a length of 10 to 35 nucleotides is preferred, with a complementary portion of a detection probe 16 to 20 nucleotides long being most preferred. Detection probes can contain any of the detection labels described above. Preferred labels are biotin and fluorescent molecules. A particularly preferred detection probe is a molecular beacon. Molecular beacons are detection probes labeled with fluorescent moieties where the fluorescent moieties fluoresce only when the detection probe is hybridized (Tyagi and Kramer, Nature Biotechnol. 14:303-309 (1995)). The use of such probes eliminates the need for removal of unhybridized probes prior to label detection because the unhybridized detection probes will not produce a signal. This is especially useful in multiplex assays.

[0142] K. Address Probes

[0143] An address probe is an oligonucleotide having a sequence complementary to address tags on primers. The complementary portion of an address probe can be any length that supports specific and stable hybridization between the address probe and the address tag. For this purpose, a length of 10 to 35 nucleotides is preferred, with a complementary portion of an address probe 12 to 18 nucleotides long being most preferred. An address probe can contain a single complementary portion or multiple complementary portions. Preferably, address probes are coupled, either directly or via a spacer molecule, to a solid-state support. Such a combination of address probe and solid-state support are a preferred form of solid-state detector.

[0144] L. Oligonucleotide Synthesis

[0145] Primers, detection probes, address probes, and any other oligonucleotides can be synthesized using established oligonucleotide synthesis methods. Methods to produce or synthesize oligonucleotides are well known in the art. Such methods can range from standard enzymatic digestion followed by nucleotide fragment isolation (see for example, Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, 2nd Edition (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1989) Chapters 5, 6) to purely synthetic methods, for example, by the cyanoethyl phosphoramidite method. Solid phase chemical synthesis of DNA fragments is routinely performed using protected nucleoside cyanoethyl phosphoramidites (S. L. Beaucage et al. (1981) Tetrahedron Lett. 22:1859). In this approach, the 3-hydroxyl group of an initial 5-protected nucleoside is first covalently attached to the polymer support (R. C. Pless et al. (1975) Nucleic Acids Res. 2:773 (1975)). Synthesis of the oligonucleotide then proceeds by deprotection of the 5-hydroxyl group of the attached nucleoside, followed by coupling of an incoming nucleoside-3-phosphoramidite to the deprotected hydroxyl group (M. D. Matteucci et a. (1981) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 103:3185). The resulting phosphite triester is finally oxidized to a phosphorotriester to complete the internucleotide bond (R. L. Letsinger et al. (1976) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 9:3655). Alternatively, the synthesis of phosphorothioate linkages can be carried out by sulfurization of the phosphite triester. Several chemicals can be used to perform this reaction, among them 3H-1,2-benzodithiole-3-one, 1,1-dioxide (R. P. Tyer, W. Egan, J. B. Regan, and S. L. Beaucage, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1990, 112, 1253-1254). The steps of deprotection, coupling and oxidation are repeated until an oligonucleotide of the desired length and sequence is obtained. Other methods exist to generate oligonucleotides such as the H-phosphonate method (Hall et al, (1957) J. Chem. Soc., 3291-3296) or the phosphotriester method as described by Ikuta et al., Ann. Rev. Biochem. 53:323-356 (1984), (phosphotriester and phosphite-triester methods), and Narang et al., Methods Enzymol., 65:610-620 (1980), (phosphotriester method). Protein nucleic acid molecules can be made using known methods such as those described by Nielsen et al., Bioconjug. Chem. 5:3-7 (1994). Other forms of oligonucleotide synthesis are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,664 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,291,669.

[0146] The nucleotide sequence of an oligonucleotide is generally determined by the sequential order in which subunits of subunit blocks are added to the oligonucleotide chain during synthesis. Each round of addition can involve a different, specific nucleotide precursor, or a mixture of one or more different nucleotide precursors. For the disclosed primers of specific sequence, specific nucleotide precursors would be added sequentially.

[0147] Many of the oligonucleotides described herein are designed to be complementary to certain portions of other oligonucleotides or nucleic acids such that stable hybrids can be formed between them. The stability of these hybrids can be calculated using known methods such as those described in Lesnick and Freier, Biochemistry 34:10807-10815 (1995), McGraw et al., Biotechniques 8:674-678 (1990), and Rychlik et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 18:6409-6412 (1990).

[0148] So long as their relevant function is maintained, primers, detection probes, address probes, and any other oligonucleotides can be made up of or include modified nucleotides (nucleotide analogs). Many modified nucleotides are known and can be used in oligonucleotides. A nucleotide analog is a nucleotide which contains some type of modification to either the base, sugar, or phosphate moieties. Modifications to the base moiety would include natural and synthetic modifications of A, C, G, and T/U as well as different purine or pyrimidine bases, such as uracil-5-yl, hypoxanthin-9-yl (I), and 2-aminoadenin-9-yl. A modified base includes but is not limited to 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C), 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, 6-methyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-propyl and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, 2-thiothymine and 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil and cytosine, 5-propynyl uracil and cytosine, 6-azo uracil, cytosine and thymine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-thiol, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxyl and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo particularly 5-bromo, 5-trifluoromethyl and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine and 7-deazaadenine and 3-deazaguanine and 3-deazaadenine. Additional base modifications can be found for example in U.S. Pat. No. 3,687,808, Englisch et al., Angewandte Chemie, International Edition, 1991, 30, 613, and Sanghvi, Y. S., Chapter 15, Antisense Research and Applications, pages 289-302, Crooke, S. T. and Lebleu, B. ed., CRC Press, 1993. Certain nucleotide analogs, such as 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines and N-2, N-6 and O-6 substituted purines, including 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil and 5-propynylcytosine. 5-methylcytosine can increase the stability of duplex formation. Other modified bases are those that function as universal bases. Universal bases include 3-nitropyrrole and 5-nitroindole. Universal bases substitute for the normal bases but have no bias in base pairing. That is, universal bases can base pair with any other base. Base modifications often can be combined with for example a sugar modification, such as 2-O-methoxyethyl, to achieve unique properties such as increased duplex stability. There are numerous United States patents such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,845,205; 5,130,302; 5,134,066; 5,175,273; 5,367,066; 5,432,272; 5,457,187; 5,459,255; 5,484,908; 5,502,177; 5,525,711; 5,552,540; 5,587,469; 5,594,121, 5,596,091; 5,614,617; and 5,681,941, which detail and describe a range of base modifications. Each of these patents is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, and specifically for their description of base modifications, their synthesis, their use, and their incorporation into oligonucleotides and nucleic acids.

[0149] Nucleotide analogs can also include modifications of the sugar moiety. Modifications to the sugar moiety would include natural modifications of the ribose and deoxyribose as well as synthetic modifications. Sugar modifications include but are not limited to the following modifications at the 2 position: OH; F; O-, S-, or N-alkyl; O-, S-, or N-alkenyl; O-, S- or N-alkynyl; or O-alkyl-O-alkyl, wherein the alkyl, alkenyl and alkynyl may be substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C10, alkyl or C2 to C10 alkenyl and alkynyl. 2 sugar modifications also include but are not limited to O(CH₂)n Om CH₃, O(CH₂)n OCH₃, O(CH₂)n NH₂, O(CH₂)n CH₃, O(CH₂)nONH₂, and O(CH₂)n ON(CH₂)n CH₃)₂, where n and m are from 1 to about 10.

[0150] Other modifications at the 2 position include but are not limited to: C1 to C10 lower alkyl, substituted lower alkyl, alkaryl, aralkyl, O-alkaryl or O-aralkyl, SH, SCH₃, OCN, Cl, Br, CN, CF₃, OCF₃, SOCH₃, SO₂ CH₃, ONO₂, NO₂, N₃, NH₂, heterocycloalkyl, heterocycloalkaryl, aminoalkylamino, polyalkylamino, substituted silyl, an RNA cleaving group, a reporter group, an intercalator, a group for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of an oligonucleotide, or a group for improving the pharmacodynamic properties of an oligonucleotide, and other substituents having similar properties. Similar modifications may also be made at other positions on the sugar, particularly the 3 position of the sugar on the 3 terminal nucleotide or in 2-5 linked oligonucleotides and the 5 position of 5 terminal nucleotide. Modified sugars would also include those that contain modifications at the bridging ring oxygen, such as CH₂ and S. Nucleotide sugar analogs may also have sugar mimetics such as cyclobutyl moieties in place of the pentofuranosyl sugar. There are numerous United States patents that teach the preparation of such modified sugar structures such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,981,957; 5,118,800; 5,319,080; 5,359,044; 5,393,878; 5,446,137; 5,466,786; 5,514,785; 5,519,134; 5,567,811; 5,576,427; 5,591,722; 5,597,909; 5,610,300; 5,627,053; 5,639,873; 5,646,265; 5,658,873; 5,670,633; and 5,700,920, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, and specifically for their description of modified sugar structures, their synthesis, their use, and their incorporation into nucleotides, oligonucleotides and nucleic acids.

[0151] Nucleotide analogs can also be modified at the phosphate moiety. Modified phosphate moieties include but are not limited to those that can be modified so that the linkage between two nucleotides contains a phosphorothioate, chiral phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate, phosphotriester, aminoalkylphosphotriester, methyl and other alkyl phosphonates including 3-alkylene phosphonate and chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates including 3-amino phosphoramidate and aminoalkylphosphoramidates, thionophosphoramidates, thionoalkylphosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, and boranophosphates. It is understood that these phosphate or modified phosphate linkages between two nucleotides can be through a 3-5 linkage or a 2-5 linkage, and the linkage can contain inverted polarity such as 3-5 to 5-3 or 2-5 to 5-2. Various salts, mixed salts and free acid forms are also included. Numerous United States patents teach how to make and use nucleotides containing modified phosphates and include but are not limited to, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,687,808; 4,469,863; 4,476,301; 5,023,243; 5,177,196; 5,188,897; 5,264,423; 5,276,019; 5,278,302; 5,286,717; 5,321,131; 5,399,676; 5,405,939; 5,453,496; 5,455,233; 5,466,677; 5,476,925; 5,519,126; 5,536,821; 5,541,306; 5,550,111; 5,563,253; 5,571,799; 5,587,361; and 5,625,050, each of which is herein incorporated by reference its entirety, and specifically for their description of modified phosphates, their synthesis, their use, and their incorporation into nucleotides, oligonucleotides and nucleic acids.

[0152] It is understood that nucleotide analogs need only contain a single modification, but may also contain multiple modifications within one of the moieties or between different moieties.

[0153] Nucleotide substitutes are molecules having similar functional properties to nucleotides, but which do not contain a phosphate moiety, such as peptide nucleic acid (PNA). Nucleotide substitutes are molecules that will recognize and hybridize to (base pair to) complementary nucleic acids in a Watson-Crick or Hoogsteen manner, but which are linked together through a moiety other than a phosphate moiety. Nucleotide substitutes are able to conform to a double helix type structure when interacting with the appropriate target nucleic acid.

[0154] Nucleotide substitutes are nucleotides or nucleotide analogs that have had the phosphate moiety and/or sugar moieties replaced. Nucleotide substitutes do not contain a standard phosphorus atom. Substitutes for the phosphate can be for example, short chain alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, mixed heteroatom and alkyl or cycloalkyl internucleoside linkages, or one or more short chain heteroatomic or heterocyclic internucleoside linkages. These include those having morpholino linkages (formed in part from the sugar portion of a nucleoside); siloxane backbones; sulfide, sulfoxide and sulfone backbones; formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; methylene formacetyl and thioformacetyl backbones; alkene containing backbones; sulfamate backbones; methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino backbones; sulfonate and sulfonamide backbones; amide backbones; and others having mixed N, O, S and CH2 component parts. Numerous United States patents disclose how to make and use these types of phosphate replacements and include but are not limited to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,034,506; 5,166,315; 5,185,444; 5,214,134; 5,216,141; 5,235,033; 5,264,562; 5,264,564; 5,405,938; 5,434,257; 5,466,677; 5,470,967; 5,489,677; 5,541,307; 5,561,225; 5,596,086; 5,602,240; 5,610,289; 5,602,240; 5,608,046; 5,610,289; 5,618,704; 5,623,070; 5,663,312; 5,633,360; 5,677,437; and 5,677,439, each of which is herein incorporated by reference its entirety, and specifically for their description of phosphate replacements, their synthesis, their use, and their incorporation into nucleotides, oligonucleotides and nucleic acids.

[0155] It is also understood in a nucleotide substitute that both the sugar and the phosphate moieties of the nucleotide can be replaced, by for example an amide type linkage (aminoethylglycine) (PNA). U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,539,082; 5,714,331; and 5,719,262 teach how to make and use PNA molecules, each of which is herein incorporated by reference. (See also Nielsen et al., Science 254:1497-1500 (1991)).

[0156] Oligonucleotides can be comprised of nucleotides and can be made up of different types of nucleotides or the same type of nucleotides. For example, one or more of the nucleotides in an oligonucleotide can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; about 10% to about 50% of the nucleotides can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; about 50% or more of the nucleotides can be ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides; or all of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides, 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides, or a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. Such oligonucleotides can be referred to as chimeric oligonucleotides.

[0157] M. DNA polymerases

[0158] DNA polymerases useful in multiple displacement amplification must be capable of displacing, either alone or in combination with a compatible strand displacement factor, a hybridized strand encountered during replication. Such polymerases are referred to herein as strand displacement DNA polymerases. It is preferred that a strand displacement DNA polymerase lack a 5 to 3 exonuclease activity. Strand displacement is necessary to result in synthesis of multiple copies of nucleic acid molecules and sequences. A 5 to 3 exonuclease activity, if present, might result in the destruction of a synthesized strand. It is also preferred that DNA polymerases for use in the disclosed method are highly processive. The suitability of a DNA polymerase for use in the disclosed method can be readily determined by assessing its ability to carry out strand displacement replication. Preferred strand displacement DNA polymerases are bacteriophage 29 DNA polymerase (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,198,543 and 5,001,050 to Blanco et al.), Bst large fragment DNA polymerase (Exo() Bst; Aliotta et al., Genet. Anal. (Netherlands) 12:185-195 (1996)) and exo()Bca DNA polymerase (Walker and Linn, Clinical Chemistry 42:1604-1608 (1996)). Other useful polymerases include phage M2 DNA polymerase (Matsumoto et al., Gene 84:247 (1989)), phage PRD1 DNA polymerase (Jung et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 84:8287 (1987)), exo()VENT DNA polymerase (Kong et al., J. Biol. Chem. 268:1965-1975 (1993)), Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase I (Jacobsen et al., Eur. J. Biochem. 45:623-627 (1974)), T5 DNA polymerase (Chatterjee et al., Gene 97:13-19 (1991)), Sequenase (U.S. Biochemicals), PRD1 DNA polymerase (Zhu and Ito, Biochim. Biophys. Acta. 1219:267-276 (1994)), and T4 DNA polymerase holoenzyme (Kaboord and Benkovic, Curr. Biol. 5:149-157 (1995)). 29 DNA polymerase is most preferred.

[0159] Strand displacement can be facilitated through the use of a strand displacement factor, such as helicase. It is considered that any DNA polymerase that can perform strand displacement replication in the presence of a strand displacement factor is suitable for use in the disclosed method, even if the DNA polymerase does not perform strand displacement replication in the absence of such a factor. Strand displacement factors useful in strand displacement replication include BMRF1 polymerase accessory subunit (Tsurumi et al., J. Virology 67(12):7648-7653 (1993)), adenovirus DNA-binding protein (Zijderveld and van der Vliet, J. Virology 68(2): 1158-1164 (1994)), herpes simplex viral protein ICP8 (Boehmer and Lehman, J. Virology 67(2):711-715 (1993); Skaliter and Lehman, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 91(22):10665-10669 (1994)); single-stranded DNA binding proteins (SSB; Rigler and Romano, J. Biol. Chem. 270:8910-8919 (1995)); phage T4 gene 32 protein (Villemain and Giedroc, Biochemistry 35:14395-14404 (1996); and calf thymus helicase (Siegel et al., J. Biol. Chem. 267:13629-13635 (1992)).

[0160] The ability of a polymerase to carry out strand displacement replication can be determined by using the polymerase in a strand displacement replication assay such as those described in Examples 1 and 5. The assay in the examples can be modified as appropriate. For example, a helicase can be used instead of SSB. Such assays should be performed at a temperature suitable for optimal activity for the enzyme being used, for example, 32 C. for 29 DNA polymerase, from 46 C. to 64 C. for exo() Bst DNA polymerase, or from about 60 C. to 70 C. for an enzyme from a hyperthermophylic organism. For assays from 60 C. to 70 C., primer length may be increased to provide a melting temperature appropriate for the assay temperature. Another useful assay for selecting a polymerase is the primer-block assay described in Kong et al., J. Biol. Chem. 268:1965-1975 (1993). The assay consists of a primer extension assay using an M13 ssDNA template in the presence or absence of an oligonucleotide that is hybridized upstream of the extending primer to block its progress. Enzymes able to displace the blocking primer in this assay are expected to be useful for the disclosed method.

[0161] N. Kits

[0162] The materials described above as well as other materials can be packaged together in any suitable combination as a kit useful for performing, or aiding in the performance of, the disclosed method. It is useful if the kit components in a given kit are designed and adapted for use together in the disclosed method. For example disclosed are kits for amplification of nucleic acid samples, the kit comprising a single primer and 29 DNA polymerase. The kits also can contain nucleotides, buffers, detection probes, fluorescent change probes, lysis solutions, stabilization solutions, denaturation solutions, or a combination.

[0163] O. Mixtures

[0164] Disclosed are mixtures formed by performing or preparing to perform the disclosed method. For example, disclosed are mixtures comprising a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, and a DNA polymerase; a single primer, a genomic nucleic acid sample, and a DNA polymerase; one or more primers, one or more nucleic acid samples, and one or more DNA polymerases; a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, and one or more detection probes; a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, and one or more fluorescent change probes; a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, and replicated nucleic acid molecules; a single primer, a genomic nucleic acid sample, and replicated nucleic acid molecules; one or more primers, one or more nucleic acid samples, and replicated nucleic acid molecules; a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, replicated nucleic acid molecules, and one or more detection probes; a single primer, a nucleic acid sample, replicated nucleic acid molecules, and one or more fluorescent change probes.

[0165] Whenever the method involves mixing or bringing into contact compositions or components or reagents, performing the method creates a number of different mixtures. For example, if the method includes 3 mixing steps, after each one of these steps a unique mixture is formed if the steps are performed separately. In addition, a mixture is formed at the completion of all of the steps and each intermediate step regardless of how the steps were performed. The present disclosure contemplates these mixtures, obtained by the performance of the disclosed methods as well as mixtures containing any disclosed reagent, composition, or component, for example, disclosed herein.

[0166] P. Systems

[0167] Disclosed are systems useful for performing, or aiding in the performance of, the disclosed method. Systems generally comprise combinations of articles of manufacture such as structures, machines, devices, and the like, and compositions, compounds, materials, and the like. Such combinations that are disclosed or that are apparent from the disclosure are contemplated. For example, disclosed and contemplated are systems comprising solid supports and primers, nucleic acid samples, detection probes, fluorescent change probes, or a combination.

[0168] Q. Data Structures and Computer Control

[0169] Disclosed are data structures used in, generated by, or generated from, the disclosed method. Data structures generally are any form of data, information, and/or objects collected, organized, stored, and/or embodied in a composition or medium. A nucleic acid library stored in electronic form, such as in RAM or on a storage disk, is a type of data structure.

[0170] The disclosed method, or any part thereof or preparation therefor, can be controlled, managed, or otherwise assisted by computer control. Such computer control can be accomplished by a computer controlled process or method, can use and/or generate data structures, and can use a computer program. Such computer control, computer controlled processes, data structures, and computer programs are contemplated and should be understood to be disclosed herein.

[0171] The disclosed method and compositions are applicable to numerous areas including, but not limited to, analysis of nucleic acids present in cells (for example, analysis of genomic DNA in cells), disease detection, mutation detection, gene discovery, gene mapping (molecular haplotyping), and agricultural research. Particularly useful is whole genome amplification. Other uses include, for example, detection of nucleic acids in cells and on genomic DNA arrays; molecular haplotyping; mutation detection; detection of inherited diseases such as cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, hemophilia, sickle cell anemia; assessment of predisposition for cancers such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, pancreatic cancer.

[0172] The disclosed method is based on strand displacement replication of the nucleic acid sequences by one, a few, or more primers. The method can be used to amplify an nucleic acid sample and is particularly useful for amplifying nucleic acid samples having a high sequence complexity, such as entire genomes. The disclosed method can be used to amplify such highly complex nucleic acid samples using only one or a limited number of primers. It has been discovered that one or a small number of primers can effectively amplify whole genomes and other nucleic acid samples of high sequence complexity. The primers are specially selected or designed to be able to prime and efficiently amplify the broad range of sequences present in highly complex nucleic acid samples despite the limited amount of primer sequence represented in the primers. The disclosed method generally involves bringing into contact one, a few, or more primers having specific nucleic acid sequences, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules results in replicated strands such that, during replication, the replicated strands are displaced from the nucleic acid molecules by strand displacement replication of another replicated strand. The replication can result in amplification of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. As used herein, a replicated strand is a nucleic acid strand resulting from elongation of a primer hybridized to a nucleic acid molecule or nucleic acid sequence or to another replicated strand. Strand displacement replication refers to DNA replication where a growing end of a replicated strand encounters and displaces another strand from the template strand (or from another replicated strand). Displacement of replicated strands by other replicated strands is a hallmark of the disclosed method which allows multiple copies of nucleic acid molecules or nucleic acid sequences to be made in a single, isothermic reaction.

[0173] In another form of the method, the primers can be 6 nucleotides in length. It was discovered that such short, 6 nucleotide primers can still prime multiple strand displacement replication efficiently. In another form of the method, the primers can each contain at least one modified nucleotide such that the primers are nuclease resistant. In another form of the method, the primers can each contain at least one modified nucleotide such that the melting temperature of the primer is altered relative to a primer of the same sequence without the modified nucleotide(s). In another form of the method, the DNA polymerase can be 29 DNA polymerase. 29 DNA polymerase produces greater amplification in multiple displacement amplification. The combination of two or more of the above features also yields improved results in multiple displacement amplification. In a preferred embodiment, for example, the nucleic acid sample is not subjected to denaturing conditions, the primers are 6 nucleotides long and contain modified nucleotides such that the primers are nuclease resistant, and the DNA polymerase is 429 DNA polymerase. The above features are especially useful in whole genome strand displacement amplification (WGSDA).

[0174] In another form of the disclosed method, the method includes labeling of the replicated strands (that is, the strands produced in multiple displacement amplification) using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase. The replicated strands can be labeled by, for example, the addition of modified nucleotides, such as biotinylated nucleotides, fluorescent nucleotides, 5 methyl dCTP, BrdUTP, or 5-(3-aminoallyl)-2-deoxyuridine 5-triphosphates, to the 3 ends of the replicated strands.

[0175] Some forms of the disclosed method provide amplified DNA of higher quality relative to previous methods due to the lack of a heat denaturation treatment of the nucleic acid molecules that are the target for amplification. Thus, the template DNA does not undergo the strand breakage events caused by heat treatment and the amplification that is accomplished by a single DNA polymerase extends farther along template strands of increased length.

[0176] A. Amplified Nucleic Acid Quality

[0177] The disclosed method can result in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample. As used herein, a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample refers to 90% or more of the nucleic acid molecules (or nucleic acid sequences) present in the nucleic acid sample. As used herein, a significant fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample refers to 50% or more of the nucleic acid molecules (or nucleic acid sequences) present in the nucleic acid sample. As used herein, a notable fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample refers to 20% or more of the nucleic acid molecules (or nucleic acid sequences) present in the nucleic acid sample.

[0178] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in a nucleic acid sample can result replication of at least 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0179] The fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample that is replicated can vary with the sequence complexity of the nucleic acid sample (although higher fractions are preferred for all nucleic acid samples). For example, where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110³ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0180] Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁹ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁸ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁷ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁶ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁵ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110⁴ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample. Where the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of less than 110³ nucleotides, replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample can result in replication of at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0181] One measure of the quality of the amplified nucleic acids can be the locus representation or sequence representation in the amplified nucleic acids. A locus representation or sequence representation the same as or close to the locus or sequence representation in the source nucleic acid sample indicates amplified nucleic acids of the highest quality. As used herein, locus representation refers to the ratio (usually expressed as a percentage) of the amount of a given locus in amplified nucleic acid to the amount of the same locus in the unamplified nucleic acid sample. In making this calculation, the measured amount of the locus in the amplified nucleic and the measured amount of the locus in the unamplified nucleic acid sample generally can be normalized to the total amount of nucleic acid present in the amplified nucleic acid and the unamplified nucleic acid sample, respectively. As used herein, sequence representation refers to the ratio (usually expressed as a percentage) of the amount of a given sequence in amplified nucleic acid to the amount of the same sequence in the unamplified nucleic acid sample. In making this calculation, the measured amount of the sequence in the amplified nucleic and the measured amount of the sequence in the unamplified nucleic acid sample generally can be normalized to the total amount of nucleic acid present in the amplified nucleic acid and the unamplified nucleic acid sample, respectively.

[0182] The locus or sequence representation can be, for example, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 160%, 170%, 180%, 190%, 200%, 225%, 250%, 275%, 300%, 350%, 400%, 450%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900%, or 1000% for one, some, or all loci or sequences measured. The locus or sequence representation can be, for example, greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, greater than 60%, greater than 70%, greater than 80%, greater than 90%, greater than 100%, greater than 110%, greater than 120%, greater than 130%, greater than 140%, greater than 150%, greater than 160%, greater than 170%, greater than 180%, greater than 190%, greater than 200%, greater than 225%, greater than 250%, greater than 275%, greater than 300%, greater than 350%, greater than 400%, greater than 450%, greater than 500%, greater than 600%, greater than 700%, greater than 800%, greater than 900%, or greater than 1000% for one, some, or all loci or sequences measured. The locus or sequence representation can be, for example, less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, less than 40%, less than 50%, less than 60%, less than 70%, less than 80%, less than 90%, less than 100%, less than 110%, less than 120%, less than 130%, less than 140%, less than 150%, less than 160%, less than 170%, less than 180%, less than 190%, less than 200%, less than 225%, less than 250%, less than 275%, less than 300%, less than 350%, less than 400%, less than 450%, less than 500%, less than 600%, less than 700%, less than 800%, less than 900%, or less than 1000% for one, some, or all loci or sequences measured.

[0183] The locus or sequence representation can be, for example, between 10% and 1000%, between 10% and 900%, between 10% and 800%, between 10% and 700%, between 10% and 600%, between 10% and 500%, between 10% and 400%, between 10% and 300%, between 10% and 250%, between 10% and 200%, between 10% and 150%, between 10% and 125%, between 10% and 100%, between 20% and 1000%, between 20% and 900%, between 20% and 800%, between 20% and 700%, between 20% and 600%, between 20% and 500%, between 20% and 400%, between 20% and 300%, between 20% and 250%, between 20% and 200%, between 20% and 150%, between 20% and 125%, between 20% and 100%, between 30% and 1000%, between 30% and 900%, between 30% and 800%, between 30% and 700%, between 30% and 600%, between 30% and 500%, between 30% and 400%, between 30% and 300%, between 30% and 250%, between 30% and 200%, between 30% and 150%, between 30% and 125%, between 30% and 100%, between 40% and 1000%, between 40% and 900%, between 40% and 800%, between 40% and 700%, between 40% and 600%, between 40% and 500%, between 40% and 400%, between 40% and 300%, between 40% and 250%, between 40% and 200%, between 40% and 150%, between 40% and 125%, between 40% and 100%, between 50% and 1000%, between 50% and 900%, between 50% and 800%, between 50% and 700%, between 50% and 600%, between 50% and 500%, between 50% and 400%, between 50% and 300%, between 50% and 250%, between 50% and 200%, between 50% and 150%, between 50% and 125%, between 50% and 100%, between 60% and 1000%, between 60% and 900%, between 60% and 800%, between 60% and 700%, between 60% and 600%, between 60% and 500%, between 60% and 400%, between 60% and 300%, between 60% and 250%, between 60% and 200%, between 60% and 150%, between 60% and 125%, between 60% and 100%, between 70% and 1000%, between 70% and 900%, between 70% and 800%, between 70% and 700%, between 70% and 600%, between 70% and 500%, between 70% and 400%, between 70% and 300%, between 70% and 250%, between 70% and 200%, between 70% and 150%, between 70% and 125%, between 70% and 100%, between 80% and 1000%, between 80% and 900%, between 80% and 800%, between 80% and 700%, between 80% and 600%, between 80% and 500%, between 80% and 400%, between 80% and 300%, between 80% and 250%, between 80% and 200%, between 80% and 150%, between 80% and 125%, between 80% and 100%, between 90% and 1000%, between 90% and 900%, between 90% and 800%, between 90% and 700%, between 90% and 600%, between 90% and 500%, between 90% and 400%, between 90% and 300%, between 90% and 250%, between 90% and 200%, between 90% and 150%, between 90% and 125%, between 90% and 100%, between 100% and 1000%, between 100% and 900%, between 100% and 800%, between 100% and 700%, between 100% and 600%, between 100% and 500%, between 100% and 400%, between 100% and 300%, between 100% and 250%, between 100% and 200%, between 100% and 150%, or between 100% and 125% for one, some, or all loci or sequences measured.

[0184] The various locus representations described above and elsewhere herein can be, for example, for 1 locus, 2 loci, 3 loci, 4 loci, 5 loci, 6 loci, 7 loci, 8 loci, 9 loci, 10 loci, 11 loci, 12 loci, 13 loci, 14 loci, 15 loci, 16 loci, 17 loci, 18 loci, 19 loci, 20 loci, 25 loci, 30 loci, 40 loci, 50 loci, 75 loci, or 100 loci. The locus representation can be, for example, for at least, 1 locus, at least 2 loci, at least 3 loci, at least 4 loci, at least 5 loci, at least 6 loci, at least 7 loci, at least 8 loci, at least 9 loci, at least 10 loci, at least 11 loci, at least 12 loci, at least 13 loci, at least 14 loci, at least 15 loci, at least 16 loci, at least 17 loci, at least 18 loci, at least 19 loci, at least 20 loci, at least 25 loci, at least 30 loci, at least 40 loci, at least 50 loci, at least 75 loci, or at least 100 loci.

[0185] The locus representation can be, for example, for 1 locus, 2 different loci, 3 different loci, 4 different loci, 5 different loci, 6 different loci, 7 different loci, 8 different loci, 9 different loci, 10 different loci, 11 different loci, 12 different loci, 13 different loci, 14 different loci, 15 different loci, 16 different loci, 17 different loci, 18 different loci, 19 different loci, 20 different loci, 25 different loci, 30 different loci, 40 different loci, 50 different loci, 75 different loci, or 100 different loci. The locus representation can be, for example, for at least 1 locus, at least 2 different loci, at least 3 different loci, at least 4 different loci, at least 5 different loci, at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci.

[0186] The various sequence representations described above and elsewhere herein can be, for example, for 1 target sequence, 2 target sequences, 3 target sequences, 4 target sequences, 5 target sequences, 6 target sequences, 7 target sequences, 8 target sequences, 9 target sequences, 10 target sequences, 11 target sequences, 12 target sequences, 13 target sequences, 14 target sequences, 15 target sequences, 16 target sequences, 17 target sequences, 18 target sequences, 19 target sequences, 20 target sequences, 25 target sequences, 30 target sequences, 40 target sequences, 50 target sequences, 75 target sequences, or 100 target sequences. The sequence representation can be, for example, for at least 1 target sequence, at least 2 target sequences, at least 3 target sequences, at least 4 target sequences, at least 5 target sequences, at least 6 target sequences, at least 7 target sequences, at least 8 target sequences, at least 9 target sequences, at least 10 target sequences, at least 11 target sequences, at least 12 target sequences, at least 13 target sequences, at least 14 target sequences, at least 15 target sequences, at least 16 target sequences, at least 17 target sequences, at least 18 target sequences, at least 19 target sequences, at least 20 target sequences, at least 25 target sequences, at least 30 target sequences, at least 40 target sequences, at least 50 target sequences, at least 75 target sequences, or at least 100 target sequences.

[0187] The sequence representation can be, for example, for 1 target sequence, 2 different target sequences, 3 different target sequences, 4 different target sequences; 5 different target sequences, 6 different target sequences, 7 different target sequences, 8 different target sequences, 9 different target sequences, 10 different target sequences, 11 different target sequences, 12 different target sequences, 13 different target sequences, 14 different target sequences, 15 different target sequences, 16 different target sequences, 17 different target sequences, 18 different target sequences, 19 different target sequences, 20 different target sequences, 25 different target sequences, 30 different target sequences, 40 different target sequences, 50 different target sequences, 75 different target sequences, or 100 different target sequences. The sequence representation can be, for example, for at least 1 target sequence, at least 2 different target sequences, at least 3 different target sequences, at least 4 different target sequences, at least 5 different target sequences, at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0188] Another measure of the quality of the amplified nucleic acids can be the amplification bias in the amplified nucleic acids. Amplification bias is the difference in the level of amplification of different sequences in a nucleic acid sample. A low amplification bias indicates amplified nucleic acids of the highest quality. Amplification bias can be calculated as the ratio (usually expressed as a fold difference) of the locus representation of the locus having the highest locus representation to the locus representation having the lowest locus representation in the amplified nucleic acid. If sequence representation is measured, then amplification bias can be calculated as the ratio (usually expressed as a fold difference) of the sequence representation of the sequence having the highest locus representation to the sequence representation having the lowest sequence representation in the amplified nucleic acid.

[0189] The amplification bias can be, for example, 1-fold, 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, 10-fold, 11-fold, 12-fold, 14-fold, 16-fold, 20-fold, 24-fold, 30-fold, 35-fold, 40-fold, 50-fold, 60-fold, 70-fold, 80-fold, 90-fold, 100-fold, 150-fold, 200-fold, 250-fold, or 300-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, about 1-fold, about 2-fold, about 3-fold, about 4-fold, about 5-fold, about 6-fold, about 7-fold, about 8-fold, about 9-fold, about 10-fold, about 11-fold, about 12-fold, about 14-fold, about 16-fold, about 20-fold, about 24-fold, about 30-fold, about 35-fold, about 40-fold, about 50-fold, about 60-fold, about 70-fold, about 80-fold, about 90-fold, about 100-fold, about 150-fold, about 200-fold, about 250-fold, or about 300-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, less than 2-fold, less than 3-fold, less than 4-fold, less than 5-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 24-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 50-fold, less than 60-fold, less than 70-fold, less than 80-fold, less than 90-fold, less than 100-fold, less than 150-fold, less than 200-fold, less than 250-fold, or less than 300-fold.

[0190] The amplification bias can be, for example, less than about 2-fold, less than about 3-fold, less than about 4-fold, less than about 5-fold, less than about 6-fold, less than about 7-fold, less than about 8-fold, less than about 9-fold, less than about 10-fold, less than about 11-fold, less than about 12-fold, less than about 14-fold, less than about 16-fold, less than about 20-fold, less than about 24-fold, less than about 30-fold, less than about 35-fold, less than about 40-fold, less than about 50-fold, less than about 60-fold, less than about 70-fold, less than about 80-fold, less than about 90-fold, less than about 100-fold, less than about 150-fold, less than about 200-fold, less than about 250-fold, or less than about 300-fold.

[0191] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 300-fold, from 2-fold to 300-fold, from 3-fold to 300-fold, from 4-fold to 300-fold, from 5-fold to 300-fold, from 6-fold to 300-fold, from 7-fold to 300-fold, from 8-fold to 300-fold, from 9-fold to 300-fold, from 10-fold to 300-fold, from 11-fold to 300-fold, from 12-fold to 300-fold, from 14-fold to 300-fold, from 16-fold to 300-fold, from 20-fold to 300-fold, from 24-fold to 300-fold, from 30-fold to 300-fold, from 35-fold to 300-fold, from 40-fold to 300-fold, from 50-fold to 300-fold, from 60-fold to 300-fold, from 70-fold to 300-fold, from 80-fold to 300-fold, from 90-fold to 300-fold, from 100-fold to 300-fold, from 150-fold to 300-fold, from 200-fold to 300-fold, or from 250-fold to 300-fold.

[0192] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 250-fold, from 2-fold to 250-fold, from 3-fold to 250-fold, from 4-fold to 250-fold, from 5-fold to 250-fold, from 6-fold to 250-fold, from 7-fold to 250-fold, from 8-fold to 250-fold, from 9-fold to 250-fold, from 10-fold to 250-fold, from 11-fold to 250-fold, from 12-fold to 250-fold, from 14-fold to 250-fold, from 16-fold to 250-fold, from 20-fold to 250-fold, from 24-fold to 250-fold, from 30-fold to 250-fold, from 35-fold to 250-fold, from 40-fold to 250-fold, from 50-fold to 250-fold, from 60-fold to 250-fold, from 70-fold to 250-fold, from 80-fold to 250-fold, from 90-fold to 250-fold, from 100-fold to 250-fold, from 150-fold to 250-fold, or from 200-fold to 250-fold.

[0193] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 200-fold, from 2-fold to 200-fold, from 3-fold to 200-fold, from 4-fold to 200-fold, from 5-fold to 200-fold, from 6-fold to 200-fold, from 7-fold to 200-fold, from 8-fold to 200-fold, from 9-fold to 200-fold, from 10-fold to 200-fold, from 11-fold to 200-fold, from 12-fold to 200-fold, from 14-fold to 200-fold, from 16-fold to 200-fold, from 20-fold to 200-fold, from 24-fold to 200-fold, from 30-fold to 200-fold, from 35-fold to 200-fold, from 40-fold to 200-fold, from 50-fold to 200-fold, from 60-fold to 200-fold, from 70-fold to 200-fold, from 80-fold to 200-fold, from 90-fold to 200-fold, from 100-fold to 200-fold, or from 150-fold to 200-fold.

[0194] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 150-fold, from 2-fold to 150-fold, from 3-fold to 150-fold, from 4-fold to 150-fold, from 5-fold to 150-fold, from 6-fold to 150-fold, from 7-fold to 150-fold, from 8-fold to 150-fold, from 9-fold to 150-fold, from 10-fold to 150-fold, from 11-fold to 150-fold, from 12-fold to 150-fold, from 14-fold to 150-fold, from 16-fold to 150-fold, from 20-fold to 150-fold, from 24-fold to 150-fold, from 30-fold to 150-fold, from 35-fold to 150-fold, from 40-fold to 150-fold, from 50-fold to 150-fold, from 60-fold to 150-fold, from 70-fold to 150-fold, from 80-fold to 150-fold, from 90-fold to 150-fold, or from 100-fold to 150-fold.

[0195] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 100-fold, from 2-fold to 100-fold, from 3-fold to 100-fold, from 4-fold to 100-fold, from 5-fold to 100-fold, from 6-fold to 100-fold, from 7-fold to 100-fold, from 8-fold to 100-fold, from 9-fold to 100-fold, from 10-fold to 100-fold, from 11-fold to 100-fold, from 12-fold to 100-fold, from 14-fold to 100-fold, from 16-fold to 100-fold, from 20-fold to 100-fold, from 24-fold to 100-fold, from 30-fold to 100-fold, from 35-fold to 100-fold, from 40-fold to 100-fold, from 50-fold to 100-fold, from 60-fold to 100-fold, from 70-fold to 100-fold, from 80-fold to 100-fold, or from 90-fold to 100-fold.

[0196] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 90-fold, from 2-fold to 90-fold, from 3-fold to 90-fold, from 4-fold to 90-fold, from 5-fold to 90-fold, from 6-fold to 90-fold, from 7-fold to 90-fold, from 8-fold to 90-fold, from 9-fold to 90-fold, from 10-fold to 90-fold, from 11-fold to 90-fold, from 12-fold to 90-fold, from 14-fold to 90-fold, from 16-fold to 90-fold, from 20-fold to 90-fold, from 24-fold to 90-fold, from 30-fold to 90-fold, from 35-fold to 90-fold, from 40-fold to 90-fold, from 50-fold to 90-fold, from 60-fold to 90-fold, from 70-fold to 90-fold, or from 80-fold to 90-fold.

[0197] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 80-fold, from 2-fold to 80-fold, from 3-fold to 80-fold, from 4-fold to 80-fold, from 5-fold to 80-fold, from 6-fold to 80-fold, from 7-fold to 80-fold, from 8-fold to 80-fold, from 9-fold to 80-fold, from 10-fold to 80-fold, from 11-fold to 80-fold, from 12-fold to 80-fold, from 14-fold to 80-fold, from 16-fold to 80-fold, from 20-fold to 80-fold, from 24-fold to 80-fold, from 30-fold to 80-fold, from 35-fold to 80-fold, from 40-fold to 80-fold, from 50-fold to 80-fold, from 60-fold to 80-fold, or from 70-fold to 80-fold.

[0198] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 70-fold, from 2-fold to 70-fold, from 3-fold to 70-fold, from 4-fold to 70-fold, from 5-fold to 70-fold, from 6-fold to 70-fold, from 7-fold to 70-fold, from 8-fold to 70-fold, from 9-fold to 70-fold, from 10-fold to 70-fold, from 11-fold to 70-fold, from 12-fold to 70-fold, from 14-fold to 70-fold, from 16-fold to 70-fold, from 20-fold to 70-fold, from 24-fold to 70-fold, from 30-fold to 70-fold, from 35-fold to 70-fold, from 40-fold to 70-fold, from 50-fold to 70-fold, or from 60-fold to 70-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 60-fold, from 2-fold to 60-fold, from 3-fold to 60-fold, from 4-fold to 60-fold, from 5-fold to 60-fold, from 6-fold to 60-fold, from 7-fold to 60-fold, from 8-fold to 60-fold, from 9-fold to 60-fold, from 10-fold to 60-fold, from 11-fold to 60-fold, from 12-fold to 60-fold, from 14-fold to 60-fold, from 16-fold to 60-fold, from 20-fold to 60-fold, from 24-fold to 60-fold, from 30-fold to 60-fold, from 35-fold to 60-fold, from 40-fold to 60-fold, or from 50-fold to 60-fold.

[0199] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 50-fold, from 2-fold to 50-fold, from 3-fold to 50-fold, from 4-fold to 50-fold, from 5-fold to 50-fold, from 6-fold to 50-fold, from 7-fold to 50-fold, from 8-fold to 50-fold, from 9-fold to 50-fold, from 10-fold to 50-fold, from 11-fold to 50-fold, from 12-fold to 50-fold, from 14-fold to 50-fold, from 16-fold to 50-fold, from 20-fold to 50-fold, from 24-fold to 50-fold, from 30-fold to 50-fold, from 35-fold to 50-fold, or from 40-fold to 50-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 40-fold, from 2-fold to 40-fold, from 3-fold to 40-fold, from 4-fold to 40-fold, from 5-fold to 40-fold, from 6-fold to 40-fold, from 7-fold to 40-fold, from 8-fold to 40-fold, from 9-fold to 40-fold, from 10-fold to 40-fold, from 11-fold to 40-fold, from 12-fold to 40-fold, from 14-fold to 40-fold, from 16-fold to 40-fold, from 20-fold to 40-fold, from 24-fold to 40-fold, from 30-fold to 40-fold, or from 35-fold to 40-fold.

[0200] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 30-fold, from 2-fold to 30-fold, from 3-fold to 30-fold, from 4-fold to 30-fold, from 5-fold to 30-fold, from 6-fold to 30-fold, from 7-fold to 30-fold, from 8-fold to 30-fold, from 9-fold to 30-fold, from 10-fold to 30-fold, from 11-fold to 30-fold, from 12-fold to 30-fold, from 14-fold to 30-fold, from 16-fold to 30-fold, from 20-fold to 30-fold, or from 24-fold to 30-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 20-fold, from 2-fold to 20-fold, from 3-fold to 20-fold, from 4-fold to 20-fold, from 5-fold to 20-fold, from 6-fold to 20-fold, from 7-fold to 20-fold, from 8-fold to 20-fold, from 9-fold to 20-fold, from 10-fold to 20-fold, from 11-fold to 20-fold, from 12-fold to 20-fold, from 14-fold to 20-fold, from 16-fold to 20-fold, from 20-fold to 20-fold, or from 24-fold to 20-fold.

[0201] The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 12-fold, from 2-fold to 12-fold, from 3-fold to 12-fold, from 4-fold to 12-fold, from 5-fold to 12-fold, from 6-fold to 12-fold, from 7-fold to 12-fold, from 8-fold to 12-fold, from 9-fold to 12-fold, from 10-fold to 12-fold, or from 11-fold to 12-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 11-fold, from 2-fold to 11-fold, from 3-fold to 11-fold, from 4-fold to 11-fold, from 5-fold to 11-fold, from 6-fold to 11-fold, from 7-fold to 11-fold, from 8-fold to 11-fold, from 9-fold to 11-fold, or from 10-fold to 11-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 10-fold, from 2-fold to 10-fold, from 3-fold to 10-fold, from 4-fold to 10-fold, from 5-fold to 10-fold, from 6-fold to 10-fold, from 7-fold to 10-fold, from 8-fold to 10-fold, or from 9-fold to 10-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 9-fold, from 2-fold to 9-fold, from 3-fold to 9-fold, from 4-fold to 9-fold, from 5-fold to 9-fold, from 6-fold to 9-fold, from 7-fold to 9-fold, or from 8-fold to 9-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 8-fold, from 2-fold to 8-fold, from 3-fold to 8-fold, from 4-fold to 8-fold, from 5-fold to 8-fold, from 6-fold to 8-fold, or from 7-fold to 8-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 7-fold, from 2-fold to 7-fold, from 3-fold to 7-fold, from 4-fold to 7-fold, from 5-fold to 7-fold, or from 6-fold to 7-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 6-fold, from 2-fold to 6-fold, from 3-fold to 6-fold, from 4-fold to 6-fold, or from 5-fold to 6-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from 1-fold to 5-fold, from 2-fold to 5-fold, from 3-fold to 5-fold, from 4-fold to 5-fold, from 1-fold to 4-fold, from 2-fold to 4-fold, from 3-fold to 4-fold, from 1-fold to 3-fold, from 2-fold to 3-fold, or from 1-fold to 2-fold.

[0202] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 300-fold, from about 2-fold to about 300-fold, from about 3-fold to about 300-fold, from about 4-fold to about 300-fold, from about 5-fold to about 300-fold, from about 6-fold to about 300-fold, from about 7-fold to about 300-fold, from about 8-fold to about 300-fold, from about 9-fold to about 300-fold, from about 10-fold to about 300-fold, from about 11-fold to about 300-fold, from about 12-fold to about 300-fold, from about 14-fold to about 300-fold, from about 16-fold to about 300-fold, from about 20-fold to about 300-fold, from about 24-fold to about 300-fold, from about 30-fold to about 300-fold, from about 35-fold to about 300-fold, from about 40-fold to about 300-fold, from about 50-fold to about 300-fold, from about 60-fold to about 300-fold, from about 70-fold to about 300-fold, from about 80-fold to about 300-fold, from about 90-fold to about 300-fold, from about 100-fold to about 300-fold, from about 150-fold to about 300-fold, from about 200-fold to about 300-fold, or from about 250-fold to about 300-fold.

[0203] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 250-fold, from about 2-fold to about 250-fold, from about 3-fold to about 250-fold, from about 4-fold to about 250-fold, from about 5-fold to about 250-fold, from about 6-fold to about 250-fold, from about 7-fold to about 250-fold, from about 8-fold to about 250-fold, from about 9-fold to about 250-fold, from about 10-fold to about 250-fold, from about 11-fold to about 250-fold, from about 12-fold to about 250-fold, from about 14-fold to about 250-fold, from about 16-fold to about 250-fold, from about 20-fold to about 250-fold, from about 24-fold to about 250-fold, from about 30-fold to about 250-fold, from about 35-fold to about 250-fold, from about 40-fold to about 250-fold, from about 50-fold to about 250-fold, from about 60-fold to about 250-fold, from about 70-fold to about 250-fold, from about 80-fold to about 250-fold, from about 90-fold to about 250-fold, from about 100-fold to about 250-fold, from about 150-fold to about 250-fold, or from about 200-fold to about 250-fold.

[0204] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 200-fold, from about 2-fold to about 200-fold, from about 3-fold to about 200-fold, from about 4-fold to about 200-fold, from about 5-fold to about 200-fold, from about 6-fold to about 200-fold, from about 7-fold to about 200-fold, from about 8-fold to about 200-fold, from about 9-fold to about 200-fold, from about 10-fold to about 200-fold, from about 11-fold to about 200-fold, from about 12-fold to about 200-fold, from about 14-fold to about 200-fold, from about 16-fold to about 200-fold, from about 20-fold to about 200-fold, from about 24-fold to about 200-fold, from about 30-fold to about 200-fold, from about 35-fold to about 200-fold, from about 40-fold to about 200-fold, from about 50-fold to about 200-fold, from about 60-fold to about 200-fold, from about 70-fold to about 200-fold, from about 80-fold to about 200-fold, from about 90-fold to about 200-fold, from about 100-fold to about 200-fold, or from about 150-fold to about 200-fold.

[0205] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 150-fold, from about 2-fold to about 150-fold, from about 3-fold to about 150-fold, from about 4-fold to about 150-fold, from about 5-fold to about 150-fold, from about 6-fold to about 150-fold, from about 7-fold to about 150-fold, from about 8-fold to about 150-fold, from about 9-fold to about 150-fold, from about 10-fold to about 150-fold, from about 1-fold to about 150-fold, from about 12-fold to about 150-fold, from about 14-fold to about 150-fold, from about 16-fold to about 150-fold, from about 20-fold to about 150-fold, from about 24-fold to about 150-fold, from about 30-fold to about 150-fold, from about 35-fold to about 150-fold, from about 40-fold to about 150-fold, from about 50-fold to about 150-fold, from about 60-fold to about 150-fold, from about 70-fold to about 150-fold, from about 80-fold to about 150-fold, from about 90-fold to about 150-fold, or from about 100-fold to about 150-fold.

[0206] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 100-fold, from about 2-fold to about 100-fold, from about 3-fold to about 100-fold, from about 4-fold to about 100-fold, from about 5-fold to about 100-fold, from about 6-fold to about 100-fold, from about 7-fold to about 100-fold, from about 8-fold to about 100-fold, from about 9-fold to about 100-fold, from about 10-fold to about 100-fold, from about 11-fold to about 100-fold, from about 12-fold to about 100-fold, from about 14-fold to about 100-fold, from about 16-fold to about 100-fold, from about 20-fold to about 100-fold, from about 24-fold to about 100-fold, from about 30-fold to about 100-fold, from about 35-fold to about 100-fold, from about 40-fold to about 100-fold, from about 50-fold to about 100-fold, from about 60-fold to about 100-fold, from about 70-fold to about 100-fold, from about 80-fold to about 100-fold, or from about 90-fold to about 100-fold.

[0207] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 90-fold, from about 2-fold to about 90-fold, from about 3-fold to about 90-fold, from about 4-fold to about 90-fold, from about 5-fold to about 90-fold, from about 6-fold to about 90-fold, from about 7-fold to about 90-fold, from about 8-fold to about 90-fold, from about 9-fold to about 90-fold, from about 10-fold to about 90-fold, from about 11-fold to about 90-fold, from about 12-fold to about 90-fold, from about 14-fold to about 90-fold, from about 16-fold to about 90-fold, from about 20-fold to about 90-fold, from about 24-fold to about 90-fold, from about 30-fold to about 90-fold, from about 35-fold to about 90-fold, from about 40-fold to about 90-fold, from about 50-fold to about 90-fold, from about 60-fold to about 90-fold, from about 70-fold to about 90-fold, or from about 80-fold to about 90-fold.

[0208] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 80-fold, from about 2-fold to about 80-fold, from about 3-fold to about 80-fold, from about 4-fold to about 80-fold, from about 5-fold to about 80-fold, from about 6-fold to about 80-fold, from about 7-fold to about 80-fold, from about 8-fold to about 80-fold, from about 9-fold to about 80-fold, from about 10-fold to about 80-fold, from about 11-fold to about 80-fold, from about 12-fold to about 80-fold, from about 14-fold to about 80-fold, from about 16-fold to about 80-fold, from about 20-fold to about 80-fold, from about 24-fold to about 80-fold, from about 30-fold to about 80-fold, from about 35-fold to about 80-fold, from about 40-fold to about 80-fold, from about 50-fold to about 80-fold, from about 60-fold to about 80-fold, or from about 70-fold to about 80-fold.

[0209] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 70-fold, from about 2-fold to about 70-fold, from about 3-fold to about 70-fold, from about 4-fold to about 70-fold, from about 5-fold to about 70-fold, from about 6-fold to about 70-fold, from about 7-fold to about 70-fold, from about 8-fold to about 70-fold, from about 9-fold to about 70-fold, from about 10-fold to about 70-fold, from about 11-fold to about 70-fold, from about 12-fold to about 70-fold, from about 14-fold to about 70-fold, from about 16-fold to about 70-fold, from about 20-fold to about 70-fold, from about 24-fold to about 70-fold, from about 30-fold to about 70-fold, from about 35-fold to about 70-fold, from about 40-fold to about 70-fold, from about 50-fold to about 70-fold, or from about 60-fold to about 70-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 60-fold, from about 2-fold to about 60-fold, from about 3-fold to about 60-fold, from about 4-fold to about 60-fold, from about 5-fold to about 60-fold, from about 6-fold to about 60-fold, from about 7-fold to about 60-fold, from about 8-fold to about 60-fold, from about 9-fold to about 60-fold, from about 10-fold to about 60-fold, from about 11-fold to about 60-fold, from about 12-fold to about 60-fold, from about 14-fold to about 60-fold, from about 16-fold to about 60-fold, from about 20-fold to about 60-fold, from about 24-fold to about 60-fold, from about 30-fold to about 60-fold, from about 35-fold to about 60-fold, from about 40-fold to about 60-fold, or from about 50-fold to about 60-fold.

[0210] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 50-fold, from about 2-fold to about 50-fold, from about 3-fold to about 50-fold, from about 4-fold to about 50-fold, from about 5-fold to about 50-fold, from about 6-fold to about 50-fold, from about 7-fold to about 50-fold, from about 8-fold to about 50-fold, from about 9-fold to about 50-fold, from about 10-fold to about 50-fold, from about 11-fold to about 50-fold, from about 12-fold to about 50-fold, from about 14-fold to about 50-fold, from about 16-fold to about 50-fold, from about 20-fold to about 50-fold, from about 24-fold to about 50-fold, from about 30-fold to about 50-fold, from about 35-fold to about 50-fold, or from about 40-fold to about 50-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 40-fold, from about 2-fold to about 40-fold, from about 3-fold to about 40-fold, from about 4-fold to about 40-fold, from about 5-fold to about 40-fold, from about 6-fold to about 40-fold, from about 7-fold to about 40-fold, from about 8-fold to about 40-fold, from about 9-fold to about 40-fold, from about 10-fold to about 40-fold, from about 11-fold to about 40-fold, from about 12-fold to about 40-fold, from about 14-fold to about 40-fold, from about 16-fold to about 40-fold, from about 20-fold to about 40-fold, from about 24-fold to about 40-fold, from about 30-fold to about 40-fold, or from about 35-fold to about 40-fold.

[0211] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 30-fold, from about 2-fold to about 30-fold, from about 3-fold to about 30-fold, from about 4-fold to about 30-fold, from about 5-fold to about 30-fold, from about 6-fold to about 30-fold, from about 7-fold to about 30-fold, from about 8-fold to about 30-fold, from about 9-fold to about 30-fold, from about 10-fold to about 30-fold, from about 11-fold to about 30-fold, from about 12-fold to about 30-fold, from about 14-fold to about 30-fold, from about 16-fold to about 30-fold, from about 20-fold to about 30-fold, or from about 24-fold to about 30-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 20-fold, from about 2-fold to about 20-fold, from about 3-fold to about 20-fold, from about 4-fold to about 20-fold, from about 5-fold to about 20-fold, from about 6-fold to about 20-fold, from about 7-fold to about 20-fold, from about 8-fold to about 20-fold, from about 9-fold to about 20-fold, from about 10-fold to about 20-fold, from about 11-fold to about 20-fold, from about 12-fold to about 20-fold, from about 14-fold to about 20-fold, from about 16-fold to about 20-fold, from about 20-fold to about 20-fold, or from about 24-fold to about 20-fold.

[0212] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 12-fold, from about 2-fold to about 12-fold, from about 3-fold to about 12-fold, from about 4-fold to about 12-fold, from about 5-fold to about 12-fold, from about 6-fold to about 12-fold, from about 7-fold to about 12-fold, from about 8-fold to about 12-fold, from about 9-fold to about 12-fold, from about 10-fold to about 12-fold, or from about 11-fold to about 12-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 11-fold, from about 2-fold to about 11-fold, from about 3-fold to about 11-fold, from about 4-fold to about 11-fold, from about 5-fold to about 11-fold, from about 6-fold to about 11-fold, from about 7-fold to about 11-fold, from about 8-fold to about 11-fold, from about 9-fold to about 11-fold, or from about 10-fold to about 11-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 10-fold, from about 2-fold to about 10-fold, from about 3-fold to about 10-fold, from about 4-fold to about 10-fold, from about 5-fold to about 10-fold, from about 6-fold to about 10-fold, from about 7-fold to about 10-fold, from about 8-fold to about 10-fold, or from about 9-fold to about 10-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 9-fold, from about 2-fold to about 9-fold, from about 3-fold to about 9-fold, from about 4-fold to about 9-fold, from about 5-fold to about 9-fold, from about 6-fold to about 9-fold, from about 7-fold to about 9-fold, or from about 8-fold to about 9-fold.

[0213] The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 8-fold, from about 2-fold to about 8-fold, from about 3-fold to about 8-fold, from about 4-fold to about 8-fold, from about 5-fold to about 8-fold, from about 6-fold to about 8-fold, or from about 7-fold to about 8-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 7-fold, from about 2-fold to about 7-fold, from about 3-fold to about 7-fold, from about 4-fold to about 7-fold, from about 5-fold to about 7-fold, or from about 6-fold to about 7-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 6-fold, from about 2-fold to about 6-fold, from about 3-fold to about 6-fold, from about 4-fold to about 6-fold, or from about 5-fold to about 6-fold. The amplification bias can be, for example, from about 1-fold to about 5-fold, from about 2-fold to about 5-fold, from about 3-fold to about 5-fold, from about 4-fold to about 5-fold, from about 1-fold to about 4-fold, from about 2-fold to about 4-fold, from about 3-fold to about 4-fold, from about 1-fold to about 3-fold, from about 2-fold to about 3-fold, or from about 1-fold to about 2-fold.

[0214] The various amplification biases described above and elsewhere herein can be, for example, for 1 locus, 2 loci, 3 loci, 4 loci, 5 loci, 6 loci, 7 loci, 8 loci, 9 loci, 10 loci, 11 loci, 12 loci, 13 loci, 14 loci, 15 loci, 16 loci, 17 loci, 18 loci, 19 loci, 20 loci, 25 loci, 30 loci, 40 loci, 50 loci, 75 loci, or 100 loci. The amplification bias can be, for example, for at least 1 locus, at least 2 loci, at least 3 loci, at least 4 loci, at least 5 loci, at least 6 loci, at least 7 loci, at least 8 loci, at least 9 loci, at least 10 loci, at least 11 loci, at least 12 loci, at least 13 loci, at least 14 loci, at least 9S loci, at least 16 loci, at least 17 loci, at least 18 loci, at least 19 loci, at least 20 loci, at least 25 loci, at least 30 loci, at least 40 loci, at least 50 loci, at least 75 loci, or at least 100 loci.

[0215] The amplification bias can be, for example, for 1 locus, 2 different loci, 3 different loci, 4 different loci, 5 different loci, 6 different loci, 7 different loci, 8 different loci, 9 different loci, 10 different loci, 11 different loci, 12 different loci, 13 different loci, 14 different loci, 15 different loci, 16 different loci, 17 different loci, 18 different loci, 19 different loci, 20 different loci, 25 different loci, 30 different loci, 40 different loci, 50 different loci, 75 different loci, or 100 different loci. The amplification bias can be, for example, for at least 1 locus, at least 2 different loci, at least 3 different loci, at least 4 different loci, at least 5 different loci, at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci.

[0216] The various amplification biases described above and elsewhere herein can be, for example, for 1 target sequence, 2 target sequences, 3 target sequences, 4 target sequences, 5 target sequences, 6 target sequences, 7 target sequences, 8 target sequences, 9 target sequences, 10 target sequences, 11 target sequences, 12 target sequences, 13 target sequences, 14 target sequences, 15 target sequences, 16 target sequences, 17 target sequences, 18 target sequences, 19 target sequences, 20 target sequences, 25 target sequences, 30 target sequences, 40 target sequences, 50 target sequences, 75 target sequences, or 100 target sequences. The amplification bias can be, for example, for at least 1 target sequence, at least 2 target sequences, at least 3 target sequences, at least 4 target sequences, at least 5 target sequences, at least 6 target sequences, at least 7 target sequences, at least 8 target sequences, at least 9 target sequences, at least 10 target sequences, at least 11 target sequences, at least 12 target sequences, at least 13 target sequences, at least 14 target sequences, at least 15 target sequences, at least 16 target sequences, at least 17 target sequences, at least 18 target sequences, at least 19 target sequences, at least 20 target sequences, at least 25 target sequences, at least 30 target sequences, at least 40 target sequences, at least 50 target sequences, at least 75 target sequences, or at least 100 target sequences.

[0217] The amplification bias can be, for example, for 1 target sequence, 2 different target sequences, 3 different target sequences, 4 different target sequences, 5 different target sequences, 6 different target sequences, 7 different target sequences, 8 different target sequences, 9 different target sequences, 10 different target sequences, 11 different target sequences, 12 different target sequences, 13 different target sequences, 14 different target sequences, 15 different target sequences, 16 different target sequences, 17 different target sequences, 18 different target sequences, 19 different target sequences, 20 different target sequences, 25 different target sequences, 30 different target sequences, 40 different target sequences, 50 different target sequences, 75 different target sequences, or 100 different target sequences. The amplification bias can be, for example, for at least 1 target sequence, at least 2 different target sequences, at least 3 different target sequences, at least 4 different target sequences, at least 5 different target sequences, at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0218] B. Amplification Level

[0219] The disclosed method can produce a high level of amplification. For example, the disclosed method can produce a 10,000-fold amplification or more. Fold amplification refers to the number of copies generated of the template being amplified. For example, if 1 ug of DNA is generated from 1 ng of template, the level of amplification is 1,000-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of about 1-fold, about 2-fold, about 3-fold, about 4-fold, about 5-fold, about 6-fold, about 7-fold, about 8-fold, about 9-fold, about 10-fold, about 11-fold, about 12-fold, about 14-fold, about 16-fold, about 20-fold, about 24-fold, about 30-fold, about 35-fold, about 40-fold, about 50-fold, about 60-fold, about 70-fold, about 80-fold, about 90-fold, about 100-fold, about 150-fold, about 200-fold, about 250-fold, about 300-fold, about 400-fold, about 500-fold, about 600-fold, about 700-fold, about 800-fold, about 900-fold, about 1,000-fold, about 10,000-fold, about 100,000-fold, about 1,000,000-fold, about 10,000,000-fold, or about 100,000,000-fold.

[0220] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of at least 2-fold, at least 3-fold, at least 4-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 6-fold, at least 7-fold, at least 8-fold, at least 9-fold, at least 10-fold, at least 11-fold, at least 12-fold, at least 14-fold, at least 16-fold, at least 20-fold, at least 24-fold, at least 30-fold, at least 35-fold, at least 40-fold, at least 50-fold, at least 60-fold, at least 70-fold, at least 80-fold, at least 90-fold, at least 100-fold, at least 150-fold, at least 200-fold, at least 250-fold, at least 300-fold, at least 400-fold, at least 500-fold, at least 600-fold, at least 700-fold, at least 800-fold, at least 900-fold, at least 1,000-fold, at least 10,000-fold, at least 100,000-fold, at least 1,000,000-fold, at least 10,000,000-fold, or at least 100,000,000-fold.

[0221] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification bias of at least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 11-fold, at least about 12-fold, at least about 14-fold, at least about 16-fold, at least about 20-fold, at least about 24-fold, at least about 30-fold, at least about 35-fold, at least about 40-fold, at least about 50-fold, at least about 60-fold, at least about 70-fold, at least about 80-fold, at least about 90-fold, at least about 100-fold, at least about 150-fold, at least about 200-fold, at least about 250-fold, at least about 300-fold, at least about 400-fold, at least about 500-fold, at least about 600-fold, at least about 700-fold, at least about 800-fold, at least about 900-fold, at least about 1,000-fold, at least about 10,000-fold, at least about 100,000-fold, at least about 1,000,000-fold, at least about 10,000,000-fold, or at least about 100,000,000-fold.

[0222] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 1100,000,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 1-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 100,000,0000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 900-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 1,000-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 10,000-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 100,000-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, from about 1,000,000-fold to about 100,000,000-fold, or from about 10,000,000-fold to about 100,000,000-fold.

[0223] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 11-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 100-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 900-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 1,000-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 10,000-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, from about 100,000-fold to about 10,000,000-fold, or from about 1,000,000-fold to about 10,000,000-fold.

[0224] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 11-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 100-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 900-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 1,000-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, from about 10,000-fold to about 1,000,000-fold, or from about 100,000-fold to about 1,000,000-fold.

[0225] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 11-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 100-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 900-fold to about 100,000-fold, from about 1,000-fold to about 100,000-fold, or from about 10,000-fold to about 100,000-fold.

[0226] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 11-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 100-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 10,000-fold, from about 900-fold to about 10,000-fold, or from about 1,000-fold to about 10,000-fold.

[0227] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 2-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 3-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 4-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 5-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 6-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 7-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 8-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 9-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 10-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 1-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 12-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 14-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 16-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 20-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 24-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 30-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 35-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 40-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 50-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 60-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 70-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 80-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 90-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 100-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 150-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 200-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 250-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 300-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 400-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 500-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 600-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 700-fold to about 1,000-fold, from about 800-fold to about 1,000-fold, or from about 900-fold to about 1,000-fold.

[0228] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 900-fold, from about 2-fold to about 900-fold, from about 3-fold to about 900-fold, from about 4-fold to about 900-fold, from about 5-fold to about 900-fold, from about 6-fold to about 900-fold, from about 7-fold to about 900-fold, from about 8-fold to about 900-fold, from about 9-fold to about 900-fold, from about 10-fold to about 900-fold, from about 1-fold to about 900-fold, from about 12-fold to about 900-fold, from about 14-fold to about 900-fold, from about 16-fold to about 900-fold, from about 20-fold to about 900-fold, from about 24-fold to about 900-fold, from about 30-fold to about 900-fold, from about 35-fold to about 900-fold, from about 40-fold to about 900-fold, from about 50-fold to about 900-fold, from about 60-fold to about 900-fold, from about 70-fold to about 900-fold, from about 80-fold to about 900-fold, from about 90-fold to about 900-fold, from about 100-fold to about 900-fold, from about 150-fold to about 900-fold, from about 200-fold to about 900-fold, from about 250-fold to about 900-fold, from about 300-fold to about 900-fold, from about 400-fold to about 900-fold, from about 500-fold to about 900-fold, from about 600-fold to about 900-fold, from about 700-fold to about 900-fold, or from about 800-fold to about 900-fold.

[0229] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 800-fold, from about 2-fold to about 800-fold, from about 3-fold to about 800-fold, from about 4-fold to about 800-fold, from about 5-fold to about 800-fold, from about 6-fold to about 800-fold, from about 7-fold to about 800-fold, from about 8-fold to about 800-fold, from about 9-fold to about 800-fold, from about 10-fold to about 800-fold, from about 11-fold to about 800-fold, from about 12-fold to about 800-fold, from about 14-fold to about 800-fold, from about 16-fold to about 800-fold, from about 20-fold to about 800-fold, from about 24-fold to about 800-fold, from about 30-fold to about 800-fold, from about 35-fold to about 800-fold, from about 40-fold to about 800-fold, from about 50-fold to about 800-fold, from about 60-fold to about 800-fold, from about 70-fold to about 800-fold, from about 80-fold to about 800-fold, from about 90-fold to about 800-fold, from about 100-fold to about 800-fold, from about 150-fold to about 800-fold, from about 200-fold to about 800-fold, from about 250-fold to about 800-fold, from about 300-fold to about 800-fold, from about 400-fold to about 800-fold, from about 500-fold to about 800-fold, from about 600-fold to about 800-fold, or from about 700-fold to about 800-fold.

[0230] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 700-fold, from about 2-fold to about 700-fold, from about 3-fold to about 700-fold, from about 4-fold to about 700-fold, from about 5-fold to about 700-fold, from about 6-fold to about 700-fold, from about 7-fold to about 700-fold, from about 8-fold to about 700-fold, from about 9-fold to about 700-fold, from about 10-fold to about 700-fold, from about 11-fold to about 700-fold, from about 12-fold to about 700-fold, from about 14-fold to about 700-fold, from about 16-fold to about 700-fold, from about 20-fold to about 700-fold, from about 24-fold to about 700-fold, from about 30-fold to about 700-fold, from about 35-fold to about 700-fold, from about 40-fold to about 700-fold, from about 50-fold to about 700-fold, from about 60-fold to about 700-fold, from about 70-fold to about 700-fold, from about 80-fold to about 700-fold, from about 90-fold to about 700-fold, from about 100-fold to about 700-fold, from about 150-fold to about 700-fold, from about 200-fold to about 700-fold, from about 250-fold to about 700-fold, from about 300-fold to about 700-fold, from about 400-fold to about 700-fold, from about 500-fold to about 700-fold, or from about 600-fold to about 700-fold.

[0231] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 600-fold, from about 2-fold to about 600-fold, from about 3-fold to about 600-fold, from about 4-fold to about 600-fold, from about 5-fold to about 600-fold, from about 6-fold to about 600-fold, from about 7-fold to about 600-fold, from about 8-fold to about 600-fold, from about 9-fold to about 600-fold, from about 10-fold to about 600-fold, from about 11-fold to about 600-fold, from about 12-fold to about 600-fold, from about 14-fold to about 600-fold, from about 16-fold to about 600-fold, from about 20-fold to about 600-fold, from about 24-fold to about 600-fold, from about 30-fold to about 600-fold, from about 35-fold to about 600-fold, from about 40-fold to about 600-fold, from about 50-fold to about 600-fold, from about 60-fold to about 600-fold, from about 70-fold to about 600-fold, from about 80-fold to about 600-fold, from about 90-fold to about 600-fold, from about 100-fold to about 600-fold, from about 150-fold to about 600-fold, from about 200-fold to about 600-fold, from about 250-fold to about 600-fold, from about 300-fold to about 600-fold, from about 400-fold to about 600-fold, or from about 500-fold to about 600-fold.

[0232] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 500-fold, from about 2-fold to about 500-fold, from about 3-fold to about 500-fold, from about 4-fold to about 500-fold, from about 5-fold to about 500-fold, from about 6-fold to about 500-fold, from about 7-fold to about 500-fold, from about 8-fold to about 500-fold, from about 9-fold to about 500-fold, from about 10-fold to about 500-fold, from about 11-fold to about 500-fold, from about 12-fold to about 500-fold, from about 14-fold to about 500-fold, from about 16-fold to about 500-fold, from about 20-fold to about 500-fold, from about 24-fold to about 500-fold, from about 30-fold to about 500-fold, from about 35-fold to about 500-fold, from about 40-fold to about 500-fold, from about 50-fold to about 500-fold, from about 60-fold to about 500-fold, from about 70-fold to about 500-fold, from about 80-fold to about 500-fold, from about 90-fold to about 500-fold, from about 100-fold to about 500-fold, from about 150-fold to about 500-fold, from about 200-fold to about 500-fold, from about 250-fold to about 500-fold, from about 300-fold to about 500-fold, or from about 400-fold to about 500-fold.

[0233] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 400-fold, from about 2-fold to about 400-fold, from about 3-fold to about 400-fold, from about 4-fold to about 400-fold, from about 5-fold to about 400-fold, from about 6-fold to about 400-fold, from about 7-fold to about 400-fold, from about 8-fold to about 400-fold, from about 9-fold to about 400-fold, from about 10-fold to about 400-fold, from about 11-fold to about 400-fold, from about 12-fold to about 400-fold, from about 14-fold to about 400-fold, from about 16-fold to about 400-fold, from about 20-fold to about 400-fold, from about 24-fold to about 400-fold, from about 30-fold to about 400-fold, from about 35-fold to about 400-fold, from about 40-fold to about 400-fold, from about 50-fold to about 400-fold, from about 60-fold to about 400-fold, from about 70-fold to about 400-fold, from about 80-fold to about 400-fold, from about 90-fold to about 400-fold, from about 100-fold to about 400-fold, from about 150-fold to about 400-fold, from about 200-fold to about 400-fold, from about 250-fold to about 400-fold, or from about 300-fold to about 400-fold.

[0234] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 300-fold, from about 2-fold to about 300-fold, from about 3-fold to about 300-fold, from about 4-fold to about 300-fold, from about 5-fold to about 300-fold, from about 6-fold to about 300-fold, from about 7-fold to about 300-fold, from about 8-fold to about 300-fold, from about 9-fold to about 300-fold, from about 10-fold to about 300-fold, from about 11-fold to about 300-fold, from about 12-fold to about 300-fold, from about 14-fold to about 300-fold, from about 16-fold to about 300-fold, from about 20-fold to about 300-fold, from about 24-fold to about 300-fold, from about 30-fold to about 300-fold, from about 35-fold to about 300-fold, from about 40-fold to about 300-fold, from about 50-fold to about 300-fold, from about 60-fold to about 300-fold, from about 70-fold to about 300-fold, from about 80-fold to about 300-fold, from about 90-fold to about 300-fold, from about 100-fold to about 300-fold, from about 150-fold to about 300-fold, from about 200-fold to about 300-fold, or from about 250-fold to about 300-fold.

[0235] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 200-fold, from about 2-fold to about 200-fold, from about 3-fold to about 200-fold, from about 4-fold to about 200-fold, from about 5-fold to about 200-fold, from about 6-fold to about 200-fold, from about 7-fold to about 200-fold, from about 8-fold to about 200-fold, from about 9-fold to about 200-fold, from about 10-fold to about 200-fold, from about 11-fold to about 200-fold, from about 12-fold to about 200-fold, from about 14-fold to about 200-fold, from about 16-fold to about 200-fold, from about 20-fold to about 200-fold, from about 24-fold to about 200-fold, from about 30-fold to about 200-fold, from about 35-fold to about 200-fold, from about 40-fold to about 200-fold, from about 50-fold to about 200-fold, from about 60-fold to about 200-fold, from about 70-fold to about 200-fold, from about 80-fold to about 200-fold, from about 90-fold to about 200-fold, from about 100-fold to about 200-fold, or from about 150-fold to about 200-fold.

[0236] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 100-fold, from about 2-fold to about 100-fold, from about 3-fold to about 100-fold, from about 4-fold to about 100-fold, from about 5-fold to about 100-fold, from about 6-fold to about 100-fold, from about 7-fold to about 100-fold, from about 8-fold to about 100-fold, from about 9-fold to about 100-fold, from about 10-fold to about 100-fold, from about 11-fold to about 100-fold, from about 12-fold to about 100-fold, from about 14-fold to about 100-fold, from about 16-fold to about 100-fold, from about 20-fold to about 100-fold, from about 24-fold to about 100-fold, from about 30-fold to about 100-fold, from about 35-fold to about 100-fold, from about 40-fold to about 100-fold, from about 50-fold to about 100-fold, from about 60-fold to about 100-fold, from about 70-fold to about 100-fold, from about 80-fold to about 100-fold, or from about 90-fold to about 100-fold.

[0237] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 90-fold, from about 2-fold to about 90-fold, from about 3-fold to about 90-fold, from about 4-fold to about 90-fold, from about 5-fold to about 90-fold, from about 6-fold to about 90-fold, from about 7-fold to about 90-fold, from about 8-fold to about 90-fold, from about 9-fold to about 90-fold, from about 10-fold to about 90-fold, from about 11-fold to about 90-fold, from about 12-fold to about 90-fold, from about 14-fold to about 90-fold, from about 16-fold to about 90-fold, from about 20-fold to about 90-fold, from about 24-fold to about 90-fold, from about 30-fold to about 90-fold, from about 35-fold to about 90-fold, from about 40-fold to about 90-fold, from about 50-fold to about 90-fold, from about 60-fold to about 90-fold, from about 70-fold to about 90-fold, or from about 80-fold to about 90-fold.

[0238] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 80-fold, from about 2-fold to about 80-fold, from about 3-fold to about 80-fold, from about 4-fold to about 80-fold, from about 5-fold to about 80-fold, from about 6-fold to about 80-fold, from about 7-fold to about 80-fold, from about 8-fold to about 80-fold, from about 9-fold to about 80-fold, from about 10-fold to about 80-fold, from about 11-fold to about 80-fold, from about 12-fold to about 80-fold, from about 14-fold to about 80-fold, from about 16-fold to about 80-fold, from about 20-fold to about 80-fold, from about 24-fold to about 80-fold, from about 30-fold to about 80-fold, from about 35-fold to about 80-fold, from about 40-fold to about 80-fold, from about 50-fold to about 80-fold, from about 60-fold to about 80-fold, or from about 70-fold to about 80-fold.

[0239] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 70-fold, from about 2-fold to about 70-fold, from about 3-fold to about 70-fold, from about 4-fold to about 70-fold, from about 5-fold to about 70-fold, from about 6-fold to about 70-fold, from about 7-fold to about 70-fold, from about 8-fold to about 70-fold, from about 9-fold to about 70-fold, from about 10-fold to about 70-fold, from about 11-fold to about 70-fold, from about 12-fold to about 70-fold, from about 14-fold to about 70-fold, from about 16-fold to about 70-fold, from about 20-fold to about 70-fold, from about 24-fold to about 70-fold, from about 30-fold to about 70-fold, from about 35-fold to about 70-fold, from about 40-fold to about 70-fold, from about 50-fold to about 70-fold, or from about 60-fold to about 70-fold.

[0240] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 60-fold, from about 2-fold to about 60-fold, from about 3-fold to about 60-fold, from about 4-fold to about 60-fold, from about 5-fold to about 60-fold, from about 6-fold to about 60-fold, from about 7-fold to about 60-fold, from about 8-fold to about 60-fold, from about 9-fold to about 60-fold, from about 10-fold to about 60-fold, from about 11-fold to about 60-fold, from about 12-fold to about 60-fold, from about 14-fold to about 60-fold, from about 16-fold to about 60-fold, from about 20-fold to about 60-fold, from about 24-fold to about 60-fold, from about 30-fold to about 60-fold, from about 35-fold to about 60-fold, from about 40-fold to about 60-fold, or from about 50-fold to about 60-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 50-fold, from about 2-fold to about 50-fold, from about 3-fold to about 50-fold, from about 4-fold to about 50-fold, from about 5-fold to about 50-fold, from about 6-fold to about 50-fold, from about 7-fold to about 50-fold, from about 8-fold to about 50-fold, from about 9-fold to about 50-fold, from about 10-fold to about 50-fold, from about 11-fold to about 50-fold, from about 12-fold to about 50-fold, from about 14-fold to about 50-fold, from about 16-fold to about 50-fold, from about 20-fold to about 50-fold, from about 24-fold to about 50-fold, from about 30-fold to about 50-fold, from about 35-fold to about 50-fold, or from about 40-fold to about 50-fold.

[0241] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 40-fold, from about 2-fold to about 40-fold, from about 3-fold to about 40-fold, from about 4-fold to about 40-fold, from about 5-fold to about 40-fold, from about 6-fold to about 40-fold, from about 7-fold to about 40-fold, from about 8-fold to about 40-fold, from about 9-fold to about 40-fold, from about 10-fold to about 40-fold, from about 11-fold to about 40-fold, from about 12-fold to about 40-fold, from about 14-fold to about 40-fold, from about 16-fold to about 40-fold, from about 20-fold to about 40-fold, from about 24-fold to about 40-fold, from about 30-fold to about 40-fold, or from about 35-fold to about 40-fold.

[0242] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 30-fold, from about 2-fold to about 30-fold, from about 3-fold to about 30-fold, from about 4-fold to about 30-fold, from about 5-fold to about 30-fold, from about 6-fold to about 30-fold, from about 7-fold to about 30-fold, from about 8-fold to about 30-fold, from about 9-fold to about 30-fold, from about 10-fold to about 30-fold, from about 11-fold to about 30-fold, from about 12-fold to about 30-fold, from about 14-fold to about 30-fold, from about 16-fold to about 30-fold, from about 20-fold to about 30-fold, or from about 24-fold to about 30-fold.

[0243] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 20-fold, from about 2-fold to about 20-fold, from about 3-fold to about 20-fold, from about 4-fold to about 20-fold, from about 5-fold to about 20-fold, from about 6-fold to about 20-fold, from about 7-fold to about 20-fold, from about 8-fold to about 20-fold, from about 9-fold to about 20-fold, from about 10-fold to about 20-fold, from about 11-fold to about 20-fold, from about 12-fold to about 20-fold, from about 14-fold to about 20-fold, or from about 16-fold to about 20-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 10-fold, from about 2-fold to about 10-fold, from about 3-fold to about 10-fold, from about 4-fold to about 10-fold, from about 5-fold to about 10-fold, from about 6-fold to about 10-fold, from about 7-fold to about 10-fold, from about 8-fold to about 10-fold, or from about 9-fold to about 10-fold.

[0244] The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 9-fold, from about 2-fold to about 9-fold, from about 3-fold to about 9-fold, from about 4-fold to about 9-fold, from about 5-fold to about 9-fold, from about 6-fold to about 9-fold, from about 7-fold to about 9-fold, or from about 8-fold to about 9-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 8-fold, from about 2-fold to about 8-fold, from about 3-fold to about 8-fold, from about 4-fold to about 8-fold, from about 5-fold to about 8-fold, from about 6-fold to about 8-fold, or from about 7-fold to about 8-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 7-fold, from about 2-fold to about 7-fold, from about 3-fold to about 7-fold, from about 4-fold to about 7-fold, from about 5-fold to about 7-fold, or from about 6-fold to about 7-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 6-fold, from about 2-fold to about 6-fold, from about 3-fold to about 6-fold, from about 4-fold to about 6-fold, or from about 5-fold to about 6-fold. The disclosed method can produce, for example, amplification of from about 1-fold to about 5-fold, from about 2-fold to about 5-fold, from about 3-fold to about 5-fold, from about 4-fold to about 5-fold, from about 1-fold to about 4-fold, from about 2-fold to about 4-fold, from about 3-fold to about 4-fold, from about 1-fold to about 3-fold, from about 2-fold to about 3-fold, or from about 1-fold to about 2-fold.

[0245] C. Primer Selection

[0246] Primers for use in the disclosed method can be selected for their ability to produce high quality amplification products. Such primers are particularly useful in the disclosed method. Where more than one primer is used in the disclosed method, all of the primers can be selected primers or some of the primers can be selected primers. Any useful criteria can be used for primer selection. Useful criteria include the quality of amplification products, such as the locus representation, the sequence representation and the amplification bias, and a lack of negative characteristics, such as a lack or minimization of production of amplification artifacts. Primers that meet given selection criteria (or a selection criterion) are referred to herein as selected primers (for those selection criteria). Primers that do not meet the given selection criteria (or selection criterion) are referred to herein as non-selected primers (for those selection criteria). Both selected and non-selected primers can be used together in the disclosed method, although use of selected primers is preferred.

[0247] Selected primers meeting different selection criteria can be used together in the disclosed method. That is, the primers used in a given amplification reaction need not all have the same capabilities or meet the same criteria. Similarly, non-selected primers failing to meet different selection criteria can be included or excluded from use in the disclosed method. That is, primers not used (or used) need not lack the same capabilities or fail to meet the same criteria. Selected primers meeting a selection criterion, selection criteria, or a combination of different selection criteria, can be used with non-selected primers failing to meet the same or a different selection criterion, selection criteria, or a combination of the same or different selection criteria.

[0248] The disclosed method thus can be performed with one or more selected primers. The disclosed method can also be performed with one or more selected primers and one or more non-selected primers. Whether a primer is a selected primer or a non-selected primer can be determined by testing the primer for the selection criterion or criteria. Thus, for example, the primer can be tested in a form of the disclosed method. Such a method could use a nucleic acid sample of interest, such as a nucleic acid sample having relevant characteristics. A nucleic acid sample used for this purpose is referred to herein as a selection nucleic acid sample. Particularly useful selection nucleic acid samples are nucleic acid samples of the same type that the selected primers will be used to amplify. Thus, a human genomic nucleic acid sample can be used as the selection sample for selecting primers to be used to amplify human genomic DNA. Also useful as selection nucleic acid samples are nucleic acid samples that can be used as standards for selecting primers to be used to amplify a variety of different types of nucleic acid samples. For example, a yeast genomic nucleic acid sample can be used as a selection nucleic acid sample for selecting primers in general. Such a selection nucleic acid sample can set a benchmark for selection criteria. The sequence complexity of the selection nucleic acid sample can be important as, or an important factor in establishing, a selection criterion or selection criteria. Thus, for example, a certain quality of amplification product form a nucleic acid sample of a given sequence complexity can be required. The selection nucleic acid sample can have any level of sequence complexity. For example, the selection nucleic acid sample can have any of the sequence complexity levels described elsewhere herein. In general, the higher the sequence complexity of the selection nucleic acid sample, the lower the quality that can be required or allowed for the selection criteria.

[0249] For selection of primers, for example, the primer can be brought into contact with a DNA polymerase and a selection nucleic acid sample and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample. The results can then be compared to the selection criterion or criteria.

[0250] A primer can be selected based on producing a certain level or range of replication of nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample. Any replication level can be used. For example, any of the replication levels described elsewhere herein can be used as the selection criterion. A selected primer can produce, for example, replication of at least 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0251] A primer can be selected based on producing a certain level or range of amplification of nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample. Any amplification level can be used. For example, any of the amplification levels described elsewhere herein can be used as the selection criterion. A selected primer can produce, for example, amplification of about 1-fold, about 2-fold, about 3-fold, about 4-fold, about 5-fold, about 6-fold, about 7-fold, about 8-fold, about 9-fold, about 10-fold, about 11-fold, about 12-fold, about 14-fold, about 16-fold, about 20-fold, about 24-fold, about 30-fold, about 35-fold, about 40-fold, about 50-fold, about 60-fold, about 70-fold, about 80-fold, about 90-fold, about 100-fold, about 150-fold, about 200-fold, about 250-fold, about 300-fold, about 400-fold, about 500-fold, about 600-fold, about 700-fold, about 800-fold, about 900-fold, about 1,000-fold, about 10,000-fold, about 100,000-fold, about 1,000,000-fold, about 10,000,000-fold, or about 100,000,000-fold. Fold amplification refers to the number of copies generated of the template being amplified. For example, if 1 ug of DNA is generated from 1 ng of template, the level of amplification is 1,000-fold.

[0252] A selected primer can produce, for example, amplification of at least 2-fold, at least 3-fold, at least 4-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 6-fold, at least 7-fold, at least 8-fold, at least 9-fold, at least 10-fold, at least 11-fold, at least 12-fold, at least 14-fold, at least 16-fold, at least 20-fold, at least 24-fold, at least 30-fold, at least 35-fold, at least 40-fold, at least 50-fold, at least 60-fold, at least 70-fold, at least 80-fold, at least 90-fold, at least 100-fold, at least 150-fold, at least 200-fold, at least 250-fold, at least 300-fold, at least 400-fold, at least 500-fold, at least 600-fold, at least 700-fold, at least 800-fold, at least 900-fold, at least 1,000-fold, at least 10,000-fold, at least 100,000-fold, at least 1,000,000-fold, at least 10,000,000-fold, or at least 100,000,000-fold.

[0253] A selected primer can produce, for example, amplification bias of at least about 2-fold, at least about 3-fold, at least about 4-fold, at least about 5-fold, at least about 6-fold, at least about 7-fold, at least about 8-fold, at least about 9-fold, at least about 10-fold, at least about 11-fold, at least about 12-fold, at least about 14-fold, at least about 16-fold, at least about 20-fold, at least about 24-fold, at least about 30-fold, at least about 35-fold, at least about 40-fold, at least about 50-fold, at least about 60-fold, at least about 70-fold, at least about 80-fold, at least about 90-fold, at least about 100-fold, at least about 150-fold, at least about 200-fold, at least about 250-fold, at least about 300-fold, at least about 400-fold, at least about 500-fold, at least about 600-fold, at least about 700-fold, at least about 800-fold, at least about 900-fold, at least about 1,000-fold, at least about 10,000-fold, at least about 100,000-fold, at least about 1,000,000-fold, at least about 10,000,000-fold, or at least about 100,000,000-fold.

[0254] A primer can be selected based on producing a certain level or range of amplification bias. Any amplification bias can be used. For example, any of the amplification biases described elsewhere herein can be used as the selection criterion. A selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of 1-fold, 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, 10-fold, 11-fold, 12-fold, 14-fold, 16-fold, 20-fold, 24-fold, 30-fold, 35-fold, 40-fold, 50-fold, 60-fold, 70-fold, 80-fold, 90-fold, 100-fold, 150-fold, 200-fold, 250-fold, or 300-fold. A selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of about 1-fold, about 2-fold, about 3-fold, about 4-fold, about 5-fold, about 6-fold, about 7-fold, about 8-fold, about 9-fold, about 10-fold, about 11-fold, about 12-fold, about 14-fold, about 16-fold, about 20-fold, about 24-fold, about 30-fold, about 35-fold, about 40-fold, about 50-fold, about 60-fold, about 70-fold, about 80-fold, about 90-fold, about 100-fold, about 150-fold, about 200-fold, about 250-fold, or about 300-fold. A selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of less than 2-fold, less than 3-fold, less than 4-fold, less than 5-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 24-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 50-fold, less than 60-fold, less than 70-fold, less than 80-fold, less than 90-fold, less than 100-fold, less than 150-fold, less than 200-fold, less than 250-fold, or less than 300-fold.

[0255] A selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of less than about 2-fold, less than about 3-fold, less than about 4-fold, less than about 5-fold, less than about 6-fold, less than about 7-fold, less than about 8-fold, less than about 9-fold, less than about 10-fold, less than about 11-fold, less than about 12-fold, less than about 14-fold, less than about 16-fold, less than about 20-fold, less than about 24-fold, less than about 30-fold, less than about 35-fold, less than about 40-fold, less than about 50-fold, less than about 60-fold, less than about 70-fold, less than about 80-fold, less than about 90-fold, less than about 100-fold, less than about 150-fold, less than about 200-fold, less than about 250-fold, or less than about 300-fold. These amplification biases can be, for example, for any number of loci or target sequences, such as, for example, a number of loci and/or target sequences described elsewhere herein.

[0256] A primer can be selected based on producing a certain level or range of sequence representation. Any sequence representation can be used. For example, any of the sequence representations described elsewhere herein can be used as the selection criterion. A selected primer can produce, for example, a sequence representation of at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100%. A selected primer can produce, for example, a sequence representation of less than 500%, less than 400%, less than 300%, less than 250%, less than 200%, less than 190%, less than 180%, less than 170%, less than 160%, less than 150%, less than 140%, less than 130%, less than 120%, or less than 110%. These sequence representations can be, for example, for any number of target sequences, such as, for example, a number of target sequences described elsewhere herein.

[0257] A primer can be selected based on producing a certain level or range of locus representation. Any locus representation can be used. For example, any of the locus representations described elsewhere herein can be used as the selection criterion. A selected primer can produce, for example, a locus representation of at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100%. A selected primer can produce, for example, a locus representation of less than 500%, less than 400%, less than 300%, less than 250%, less than 200%, less than 190%, less than 180%, less than 170%, less than 160%, less than 150%, less than 140%, less than 130%, less than 120%, or less than 110%. These locus representations can be, for example, for any number of loci, such as, for example, a number of loci described elsewhere herein.

[0258] Primers can also be selected as groups of primers. That is, whether the group of primers, when used together, exhibit the selection criterion or criteria can be tested. This can be accomplished in all the ways described herein for selection of single primers. Thus, for example, the group of primers can be brought into contact with a DNA polymerase and a selection nucleic acid sample and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample.

[0259] Non-selected primers can be identified in the same way using similar criteria as selected primers are identified. The difference is that the non-selected primers fail to meet a selection criterion or selection criteria. It is understood however, that such failure to meet a criterion or criteria can be expressed as having a certain characteristic or feature, just as in the case of selected primers. Such criteria can be referred to as non-selection criteria.

[0260] A non-selected primer can be identified based on producing or failing to produce a certain level or range of replication of nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample. Any replication level can be used as the standard. For example, any of the replication levels described elsewhere herein can be used as the non-selection criterion. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, replication of less than 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, less than 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample, or less than 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the nucleic acid sample.

[0261] A non-selected primer can be identified based on producing or failing to produce a certain level or range of amplification bias. Any amplification bias can be used as the standard. For example, any of the amplification biases described elsewhere herein can be used as the non-selection criterion. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of 1-fold, 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, 10-fold, 11-fold, 12-fold, 14-fold, 16-fold, 20-fold, 24-fold, 30-fold, 35-fold, 40-fold, 50-fold, 60-fold, 70-fold, 80-fold, 90-fold, 100-fold, 150-fold, 200-fold, 250-fold, or 300-fold. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of about 1-fold, about 2-fold, about 3-fold, about 4-fold, about 5-fold, about 6-fold, about 7-fold, about 8-fold, about 9-fold, about 10-fold, about 11-fold, about 12-fold, about 14-fold, about 16-fold, about 20-fold, about 24-fold, about 30-fold, about 35-fold, about 40-fold, about 50-fold, about 60-fold, about 70-fold, about 80-fold, about 90-fold, about 100-fold, about 150-fold, about 200-fold, about 250-fold, or about 300-fold. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of more than 2-fold, more than 3-fold, more than 4-fold, more than 5-fold, more than 6-fold, more than 7-fold, more than 8-fold, more than 9-fold, more than 10-fold, more than 11-fold, more than 12-fold, more than 14-fold, more than 16-fold, more than 20-fold, more than 24-fold, more than 30-fold, more than 35-fold, more than 40-fold, more than 50-fold, more than 60-fold, more than 70-fold, more than 80-fold, more than 90-fold, more than 100-fold, more than 150-fold, more than 200-fold, more than 250-fold, or more than 300-fold.

[0262] A selected primer can produce, for example, an amplification bias of more than about 2-fold, more than about 3-fold, more than about 4-fold, more than about 5-fold, more than about 6-fold, more than about 7-fold, more than about 8-fold, more than about 9-fold, more than about 10-fold, more than about 11-fold, more than about 12-fold, more than about 14-fold, more than about 16-fold, more than about 20-fold, more than about 24-fold, more than about 30-fold, more than about 35-fold, more than about 40-fold, more than about 50-fold, more than about 60-fold, more than about 70-fold, more than about 80-fold, more than about 90-fold, more than about 100-fold, more than about 150-fold, more than about 200-fold, more than about 250-fold, or more than about 300-fold. These amplification biases can be, for example, for any number of loci or target sequences, such as, for example, a number of loci and/or target sequences described elsewhere herein.

[0263] A non-selected primer can be identified based on producing a certain level or range of sequence representation. Any sequence representation can be used as the standard. For example, any of the sequence representations described elsewhere herein can be used as the non-selection criterion. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, a sequence representation of less than 0.1%, less than 1%, less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, less than 40%, less than 50%, less than 60%, less than 70%, less than 80%, less than 90%, or less than 100%. A selected primer can produce, for example, a sequence representation of more than 500%, more than 400%, more than 300%, more than 250%, more than 200%, more than 190%, more than 180%, more than 170%, more than 160%, more than 150%, more than 140%, more than 130%, more than 120%, or more than 110%. These sequence representations can be, for example, for any number of target sequences, such as, for example, a number of target sequences described elsewhere herein.

[0264] A non-selected primer can be identified based on producing a certain level or range of locus representation. Any locus representation can be used as the standard. For example, any of the locus representations described elsewhere herein can be used as the non-selection criterion. A non-selected primer can produce, for example, a locus representation of less than 0.1%, less than 1%, less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, less than 40%, less than 50%, less than 60%, less than 70%, less than 80%, less than 90%, or less than 100%. A selected primer can produce, for example, a locus representation of more than 500%, more than 400%, more than 300%, more than 250%, more than 200%, more than 190%, more than 180%, more than 170%, more than 160%, more than 150%, more than 140%, more than 130%, more than 120%, or more than 110%. These locus representations can be, for example, for any number of loci, such as, for example, a number of loci described elsewhere herein.

[0265] For establishing potential for artifact production by a primer or group of primers, the primer or group of primers can be tested in a modified form of the disclosed method where no nucleic acid sample is used. If, when, and at what level amplification products are observed in such an assay is a measure of the potential of the primer or group of primers to produce amplification artifacts. One criterion for low potential for artifact production is a long delay before amplification products are first observed in a reaction performed in the absence of a nucleic acid sample (or other template nucleic acids). Delays can be, for example, to 125%, 150%, 175%, 200%, 225%, 250%, 275%, 300%, 325%, 350%, 375%, 400%, 425%, 450%, 475%, or 500% of the time where amplification products are first observed in a reaction having a nucleic acid sample. Delays can be, for example, to greater than 125%, greater than 150%, greater than 175%, greater than 200%, greater than 225%, greater than 250%, greater than 275%, greater than 300%, greater than 325%, greater than 350%, greater than 375%, greater than 400%, greater than 425%, greater than 450%, greater than 475%, or greater than 500% of the time where amplification products are first observed in a reaction having a nucleic acid sample.

[0266] D. Whole Genome Strand Displacement Amplification

[0267] In one form of the method, referred to as whole genome strand displacement amplification (WGSDA), one, a few, or more primers can be used to prime a sample of genomic nucleic acid (or another sample of nucleic acid of high complexity). It was discovered that one or a few primers can be used because the primers will be collectively complementary to nucleic acid sequences distributed throughout nucleic acid in the sample at sufficiently short intervals to allow effective strand displacement amplification. Amplification proceeds by replication with a processive polymerase initiated at each primer and continuing until spontaneous termination. A key feature of this method is the displacement of intervening primers and primer extension products during replication by the polymerase. In this way, multiple overlapping copies of the entire genome can be synthesized in a short time.

[0268] Whole genome strand displacement amplification can be performed by, for example, (a) mixing one or a few primers with a genomic nucleic acid sample (or other nucleic acid sample of high complexity), to produce a primer-nucleic acid sample mixture, and incubating the primer-nucleic acid sample mixture under conditions that promote hybridization between the primers and the genomic nucleic acids in the primer-nucleic acid sample mixture, and (b) mixing DNA polymerase with the primer-nucleic acid sample mixture, to produce a polymerase-nucleic acid sample mixture, and incubating the polymerase-nucleic acid sample mixture under conditions that promote replication of the genomic nucleic acids. Strand displacement replication is preferably accomplished by using a strand displacing DNA polymerase or a DNA polymerase in combination with a compatible strand displacement factor.

[0269] The method has advantages over the polymerase chain reaction since it can be carried out under isothermal conditions. Other advantages of whole genome strand displacement amplification include a higher level of amplification than whole genome PCR, amplification is less sequence-dependent than PCR, a lack of re-annealing artifacts or gene shuffling artifacts as can occur with PCR (since there are no cycles of denaturation and re-annealing), and a lower amplification bias than PCR-based genome amplification (bias of, for example, 3-fold for WGSDA versus 20- to 60-fold for PCR-based genome amplification).

[0270] Following amplification, the amplified sequences can be used for any purpose, such as uses known and established for PCR amplified sequences. For example, amplified sequences can be detected using any of the conventional detection systems for nucleic acids such as detection of fluorescent labels, enzyme-linked detection systems, antibody-mediated label detection, and detection of radioactive labels. A key feature of the disclosed method is that amplification takes place not in cycles, but in a continuous, isothermal replication. This makes amplification less complicated and much more consistent in output. Strand displacement allows rapid generation of multiple copies of a nucleic acid sequence or sample in a single, continuous, isothermal reaction.

[0271] It is preferred that the number of primers used for WGSDA allow the primers to hybridize at desired intervals within the nucleic acid sample. For example, by using a number of primers that allows them to hybridize, on average, every 4000 to 8000 bases, DNA replication initiated at these sites will extend to and displace strands being replicated from adjacent sites. It should be noted that the primers are not expected to hybridize to nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample at regular intervals. Rather, the average interval will be a general function of the number of primers (as described elsewhere herein).

[0272] Displacement of an adjacent strand makes it available for hybridization to another primer and subsequent initiation of another round of replication. The interval at which the primers hybridize to the nucleic acid molecules generally determines the level of amplification. For example, if the average interval is short, adjacent strands will be displaced quickly and frequently. If the average interval is long, adjacent strands will be displaced only after long runs of replication.

[0273] In the disclosed method, the DNA polymerase catalyzes primer extension and strand displacement in a processive strand displacement polymerization reaction that proceeds as long as desired. Preferred strand displacing DNA polymerases are bacteriophage 29 DNA polymerase (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,198,543 and 5,001,050 to Blanco et al.), large fragment Bst DNA polymerase (Exo() Bst), exo()Bca DNA polymerase, and Sequenase. During strand displacement replication one may additionally include radioactive, or modified nucleotides such as bromodeoxyuridine triphosphate, in order to label the DNA generated in the reaction. Alternatively, one may include suitable precursors that provide a binding moiety such as biotinylated nucleotides (Langer et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 78:6633 (1981)).

[0274] Genome amplification using PCR, and uses for the amplified DNA, is described in Zhang et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:5847-5851 (1992), Telenius et al., Genomics 13:718-725 (1992), Cheung et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 93:14676-14679 (1996), and Kukasjaarvi et al., Genes, Chromosomes and Cancer 18:94-101 (1997). The uses of the amplified DNA described in these publications are also generally applicable to DNA amplified using the disclosed methods. Whole Genome Strand Displacement Amplification, unlike PCR-based whole genome amplification, is suitable for haplotype analysis since WGSDA yields longer fragments than PCR-based whole genome amplification. PCR-based whole genome amplification is also less suitable for haplotype analysis since each cycle in PCR creates an opportunity for priming events that result in the association of distant sequences (in the genome) to be put together in the same fragment.

[0275] Long nucleic acid segments can be amplified in the disclosed method since there is no cycling which could interrupt continuous synthesis or allow the formation of artifacts due to rehybridization of replicated strands.

[0276] E. Nucleic Acid Sample Preparation and Treatment

[0277] Nucleic acids for amplification are often obtained from cellular samples. This generally requires disruption of the cell (to make the nucleic acid accessible) and purification of the nucleic acids prior to amplification. It also generally requires the inactivation of protein factors such as nucleases that could degrade the DNA, or of factors such as histones that could bind to DNA strands and impede their use as a template for DNA synthesis by a polymerase. There are a variety of techniques used to break open cells, such as sonication, enzymatic digestion of cell walls, heating, and exposure to lytic conditions. Lytic conditions typically involve use of non-physiological pH and/or solvents. Many lytic techniques can result in damage to nucleic acids in cells, including, for example, breakage of genomic DNA. In particular, use of heating to lyse cells can damage genomic DNA and reduce the amount and quality of amplification products of genomic DNA. It has been discovered that alkaline lysis can cause less damage to genomic DNA and can thus result in higher quality amplification results. Alkaline lysis also inactivates protein factors such as nucleases, histones, or other factors that could impede the amplification of DNA within the sample. In addition, it is a useful property of alkaline lysis that reducing the pH does not reactivate the protein factors, but that such protein factors remain inactivated when the pH of the solution is brought back within a neutral range.

[0278] In some forms of the disclosed method, a genomic sample is prepared by exposing cells to alkaline conditions, thereby lysing the cells and resulting in a cell lysate; reducing the pH of the cell lysate to make the pH of the cell lysate compatible with DNA replication; and incubating the cell lysate under conditions that promote replication of the genome of the cells by multiple displacement amplification. Alkaline conditions are conditions where the pH is greater than 9.0. Particularly useful alkaline conditions for the disclosed method are conditions where the pH is greater than 10.0. The alkaline conditions can be, for example, those that cause a substantial number of cells to lyse, those that cause a significant number of cells to lyse, or those that cause a sufficient number of cells to lyse. The number of lysed cells can be considered sufficient if the genome can be sufficiently amplified in the disclosed method. The amplification is sufficient if enough amplification product is produced to permit some use of the amplification product, such as detection of sequences or other analysis. The reduction in pH is generally into the neutral range of pH 9.0 to pH 6.0.

[0279] The cells can be exposed to alkaline conditions by mixing the cells with a lysis solution. The amount of lysis solution mixed with the cells can be that amount that causes a substantial number of cells to lyse or those that cause a sufficient number of cells to lyse. Generally, this volume will be a function of the pH of the cell/lysis solution mixture. Thus, the amount of lysis solution to mix with cells can be determined generally from the volume of the cells and the alkaline concentration of the lysis buffer. For example, a smaller volume of a lysis solution with a stronger base and/or higher concentration of base would be needed to create sufficient alkaline conditions than the volume needed of a lysis solution with a weaker base and/or lower concentration of base. The lysis solution can be formulated such that the cells are mixed with an equal volume of the lysis solution (to produce the desired alkaline conditions).

[0280] In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a base, such as an aqueous base. Useful bases include potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium acetate, sodium acetate, ammonium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, ammonia, aniline, benzylamine, n-butylamine, diethylamine, dimethylamine, diphenylamine, ethylamine, ethylenediamine, methylamine, N-methylaniline, morpholine, pyridine, triethylamine, trimethylamine, aluminum hydroxide, rubidium hydroxide, cesium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide, barium hydroxide, and DBU (1,8-diazobicyclo5,4,0undec-7-ene). Useful formulations of lysis solution include lysis solution comprising 400 mM KOH, lysis solution comprising 400 mM KOH, 100 mM dithiothreitol, and 10 mM EDTA, and lysis solution consisting of 400 mM KOH, 100 mM dithiothreitol, and 10 mM EDTA.

[0281] In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a plurality of basic agents. As used herein, a basic agent is a compound, composition or solution that results in alkaline conditions. In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a buffer. Useful buffers include phosphate buffers, Good buffers (such as BES, BICINE, CAPS, EPPS, HEPES, MES, MOPS, PIPES, TAPS, TES, and TRICINE), sodium cacodylate, sodium citrate, triethylammonium acetate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, Tris, Bis-tris, and Bis-tris propane. The lysis solution can comprise a plurality of buffering agents. As used herein, a buffering agent is a compound, composition or solution that acts as a buffer. An alkaline buffering agent is a buffering agent that results in alkaline conditions. In some embodiments, the lysis solution can comprise a combination of one or more bases, basic agents, buffers and buffering agents.

[0282] The pH of the cell lysate can be reduced to form a stabilized cell lysate. A stabilized cell lysate is a cell lysate the pH of which is in the neutral range (from about pH 6.0 to about pH 9.0). Useful stabilized cell lysates have a pH that allows replication of nucleic acids in the cell lysate. For example, the pH of the stabilized cell lysate is usefully at a pH at which the DNA polymerase can function. The pH of the cell lysate can be reduced by mixing the cell lysate with a stabilization solution. The stabilization solution comprises a solution that can reduce the pH of a cell lysate exposed to alkaline conditions as described elsewhere herein.

[0283] The amount of stabilization solution mixed with the cell lysate can be that amount that causes a reduction in pH to the neutral range (or other desired pH value). Generally, this volume will be a function of the pH of the cell lysate/stabilization solution mixture. Thus, the amount of stabilization solution to mix with the cell lysate can be determined generally from the volume of the cell lysate, its pH and buffering capacity, and the acidic concentration of the stabilization buffer. For example, a smaller volume of a stabilization solution with a stronger acid and/or higher concentration of acid would be needed to reduce the pH sufficiently than the volume needed of a stabilization solution with a weaker acid and/or lower concentration of acid. The stabilization solution can be formulated such that the cell lysate is mixed with an equal volume of the stabilization solution (to produce the desired pH).

[0284] In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise an acid. Useful acids include hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, ascorbic acid, carbonic acid, citric acid, formic acid, nitric acid, perchloric acid, HF, HBr, HI, H₂S, HCN, HSCN, HClO, monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, and any carboxylic acid (ethanoic, propanoic, butanoic, etc., including both linear or branched chain carboxylic acids). In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a buffer. Useful buffers include Tris-HCl, HEPES, Good buffers (such as BES, BICINE, CAPS, EPPS, HEPES, MES, MOPS, PIPES, TAPS, TES, and TRICINE), sodium cacodylate, sodium citrate, triethylammonium acetate, triethylammonium bicarbonate, Tris, Bis-tris, and Bis-tris propane. Useful formulations of stabilization solutions include stabilization solution comprising 800 mM Tris-HCl; stabilization solution comprising 800 mM Tris-HCl at pH 4.1; and-stabilization solution consisting of 800 mM Tris-HCl, pH 4.1.

[0285] In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a plurality of acidic agents. As used herein, an acidic agent is a compound, composition or solution that forms an acid in solution. In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a plurality of buffering agents. An acidic buffering agent is a buffering agent that forms an acid in solution. In some embodiments, the stabilization solution can comprise a combination of one or more acids, acidic agents, buffers and buffering agents.

[0286] In some embodiments, the pH of the cell lysate can be reduced to about pH 9.0 or below, to about pH 8.5 or below, to about pH 8.0 or below, to about pH 7.5 or below, to about pH 7.2 or below, or to about pH 7.0 or below. In some embodiments, the pH of the cell lysate can be reduced to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 7.0, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 7.2, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 7.5, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 8.0, to the range of about pH 9.0 to about pH 8.5, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 7.0, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 7.2, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 7.5, to the range of about pH 8.5 to about pH 8.0, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 7.0, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 7.2, to the range of about pH 8.0 to about pH 7.5, to the range of about pH 7.5 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 7.5 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 7.5 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 7.5 to about pH 7.0, to the range of about pH 7.5 to about pH 7.2, to the range of about pH 7.2 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 7.2 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 7.2 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 7.2 to about pH 7.0, to the range of about pH 7.0 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 7.0 to about pH 6.5, to the range of about pH 7.0 to about pH 6.8, to the range of about pH 6.8 to about pH 6.0, to the range of about pH 6.8 to about pH 6.5, or to the range of about pH 6.5 to about pH 6.0. In some embodiments, the pH of the cell lysate can be reduced to any range having any combination of endpoints from about pH 6.0 to about pH 9.0 All such endpoints and ranges are specifically and separately contemplated.

[0287] In some embodiments, the cells are not lysed by heat. Those of skill in the art will understand that different cells under different conditions will be lysed at different temperatures and so can determine temperatures and times at which the cells will not be lysed by heat. In general, the cells are not subjected to heating above a temperature and for a time that would cause substantial cell lysis in the absence of the alkaline conditions used. As used herein, substantial cell lysis refers to lysis of 90% or greater of the cells exposed to the alkaline conditions. Significant cell lysis refers to lysis of 50% or more of the cells exposed to the alkaline conditions. Sufficient cell lysis refers to lysis of enough of the cells exposed to the alkaline conditions to allow synthesis of a detectable amount of amplification products by multiple strand displacement amplification. In general, the alkaline conditions used in the disclosed method need only cause sufficient cell lysis. It should be understood that alkaline conditions that could cause significant or substantial cell lysis need not result in significant or substantial cell lysis when the method is performed.

[0288] In some embodiments, the cells are not subjected to heating substantially or significantly above the temperature at which the cells grow. As used herein, the temperature at which the cells grow refers to the standard temperature, or highest of different standard temperatures, at which cells of the type involved are cultured. In the case of animal cells, the temperature at which the cells grow refers to the body temperature of the animal. In other embodiments, the cells are not subjected to heating substantially or significantly above the temperature of the amplification reaction (where the genome is replicated).

[0289] In some embodiments, the cell lysate is not subjected to purification prior to the amplification reaction. In the context of the disclosed method, purification generally refers to the separation of nucleic acids from other material in the cell lysate. It has been discovered that multiple displacement amplification can be performed on unpurified and partially purified samples. It is commonly thought that amplification reactions cannot be efficiently performed using unpurified nucleic acid. In particular, PCR is very sensitive to contaminants.

[0290] Forms of purification include centrifugation, extraction, chromatography, precipitation, filtration, and dialysis. Partially purified cell lysate includes cell lysates subjected to centrifugation, extraction, chromatography, precipitation, filtration, and dialysis. Partially purified cell lysate generally does not include cell lysates subjected to nucleic acid precipitation or dialysis. As used herein, separation of nucleic acid from other material refers to physical separation such that the nucleic acid to be amplified is in a different container or container from the material. Purification does not require separation of all nucleic acid from all other materials. Rather, what is required is separation of some nucleic acid from some other material. As used herein in the context of nucleic acids to be amplified, purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from other material. In the context of cell lysates, purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from other material in the cell lysate. As used herein, partial purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from some, but not all, of other material with which the nucleic acid is mixed. In the context of cell lysates, partial purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from some, but not all, of the other material in the cell lysate.

[0291] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, reference herein to a lack of purification, lack of one or more types of purification or separation operations or techniques, or exclusion of purification or one or more types of purification or separation operations or techniques does not encompass the exposure of cells to alkaline conditions (or the results thereof) the reduction of pH of a cell lysate (or the results thereof). That is, to the extent that the alkaline conditions and pH reduction of the disclosed method produce an effect that could be considered purification or separation, such effects are excluded from the definition of purification and separation when those terms are used in the context of processing and manipulation of cell lysates and stabilized cell lysates (unless the context clearly indicates otherwise).

[0292] As used herein, substantial purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from at least a substantial portion of other material with which the nucleic acid is mixed. In the context of cell lysates, substantial purification refers to separation of nucleic acid from at least a substantial portion of the other material in the cell lysate. A substantial portion refers to 90% of the other material involved. Specific levels of purification can be referred to as a percent purification (such as 95% purification and 70% purification).

[0293] A percent purification refers to purification that results in separation from nucleic acid of at least the designated percent of other material with which the nucleic acid is mixed.

[0294] Denaturation of nucleic acid molecules to be amplified is common in amplification techniques. This is especially true when amplifying genomic DNA. In particular, PCR uses multiple denaturation cycles. Denaturation is generally used to make nucleic acid strands accessible to primers. Nucleic acid molecules, genomic DNA, for example, need not be denatured for efficient multiple displacement amplification. Elimination of a denaturation step and denaturation conditions has additional advantages such as reducing sequence bias in the amplified products (that is, reducing the amplification bias). In preferred forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid is not subjected to denaturating conditions and/or no denaturation step is used.

[0295] In some forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid is not subjected to heat denaturating conditions and/or no heat denaturation step is used. In some forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid is not subjected to alkaline denaturating conditions and/or no alkaline denaturation step is used. It should be understood that while sample preparation (for example, cell lysis and processing of cell extracts) may involve conditions that might be considered denaturing (for example, treatment with alkali), the denaturation conditions or step eliminated in some forms of the disclosed method refers to denaturation steps or conditions intended and used to make nucleic acid strands accessible to primers. Such denaturation is commonly a heat denaturation, but can also be other forms of denaturation such as chemical denaturation. It should be understood that in the disclosed method where the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid is not subjected to denaturing conditions, the template strands are accessible to the primers (since amplification occurs). However, the template stands are not made accessible via general denaturation of the sample or template nucleic acids.

[0296] Alternatively, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid can be subjected to denaturating conditions and/or a denaturation step can be used. In some forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid can be subjected to heat denaturating conditions and/or a heat denaturation step can be used. In some forms of the disclosed method, the nucleic acid sample or template nucleic acid can be subjected to alkaline denaturating conditions and/or an alkaline denaturation step can be used.

[0297] The efficiency of a DNA amplification procedure may be described for individual loci as the percent representation of that locus (that is, the locus representation), where the locus representation is 100% for a locus in genomic DNA as purified from cells. For 10,000-fold amplification, the average representation frequency was 141% for 8 loci in DNA amplified without heat denaturation of the template, and 37% for the 8 loci in DNA amplified with heat denaturation of the template. The omission of a heat denaturation step results in a 3.8-fold increase in the representation frequency for amplified loci. Amplification bias may be calculated between two samples of amplified DNA or between a sample of amplified DNA and the template DNA it was amplified from. The bias is the ratio between the values for percent representation for a particular locus (locus representation). The maximum bias is the ratio of the most highly represented locus to the least represented locus. For 10,000-fold amplification, the maximum amplification bias was 2.8 for DNA amplified without heat denaturation of the template, and 50.7 for DNA amplified with heat denaturation of the template. The omission of a heat denaturation step results in an 18-fold decrease in the maximum bias for amplified loci.

[0298] In one form of the disclosed method, a small amount of purified double-strand human genomic DNA (1 ng, for example) can be mixed with one or a few exonuclease-resistant primers 6 nucleotides long and 429 DNA polymerase under conditions that favor DNA synthesis. For example, the mixture can simply be incubated at 30 C. and multiple displacement amplification will take place. Thus, any single-stranded or duplex DNA may be used, without any additional treatment, making the disclosed method a simple, one-step procedure. Since so little DNA template is required, a major advantage of the disclosed method is that DNA template may be taken from preparations that contain levels of contaminants that would inhibit other DNA amplification procedures such as PCR. For MDA the sample may be diluted so that the contaminants fall below the concentration at which they would interfere with the reaction. The disclosed method can be performed (and the above advantages achieved) using any type of sample, including, for example, bodily fluids such as urine, semen, lymphatic fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, and amniotic fluid.

[0299] The need for only small amounts of DNA template in the disclosed method means that the method is useful for DNA amplification from very small samples. In particular, the disclosed method may be used to amplify DNA from a single cell. The ability to obtain analyzable amounts of nucleic acid from a single cell (or similarly small sample) has many applications in preparative, analytical, and diagnostic procedures such as prenatal diagnostics. Other examples of biological samples containing only small amounts of DNA for which amplification by the disclosed method would be useful are material excised from tumors or other archived medical samples, needle aspiration biopsies, clinical samples arising from infections, such as nosocomial infections, forensic samples, or museum specimens of extinct species.

[0300] More broadly, the disclosed method is useful for applications in which the amounts of DNA needed are greater than the supply. For example, procedures that analyze DNA by chip hybridization techniques are limited by the amounts of DNA that can be purified from typically sized blood samples. As a result many chip hybridization procedures utilize PCR to generate a sufficient supply of material for the high-throughput procedures. The disclosed method presents a useful technique for the generation of plentiful amounts of amplified DNA that faithfully reproduces the locus representation frequencies of the starting material.

[0301] The disclosed method can produce a DNA amplification product with improved performance in genetic assays compared to amplification performed with heat treatment of the template DNA. The longer DNA products produced without heat treatment of the template yield larger DNA fragments in Southern blotting and genetic analysis using RFLP. The disclosed method produces for a DNA amplification product with no loss of locus representation when used as a substrate in quantitative PCR assays compared to DNA amplified with heat treatment of the template. The disclosed method produces a DNA amplification product with a low amplification bias, with the variation in representation among eight different loci varying by less than 3.0. In contrast, the amplification bias of DNA products amplified by two PCR-based amplification methods, PEP and DOP-PCR, varies between two and six orders of magnitude.

[0302] Another specific form of the disclosed method involves amplification of genomic DNA the absence of a heat treatment step directly from whole blood or from tissue culture cells. Such amplification can be achieved with the same efficiency as from purified DNA. The DNA amplified directly from blood or cells can have substantially the same locus representation values as DNA amplified from purified human DNA template. This represents an advantage over other amplification procedures such as PCR, since components such as heme in whole blood inhibit PCR and necessitate a purification step before DNA from blood can be used as a PCR template.

[0303] F. Detection of Amplification Products

[0304] Products of amplification can be detected using any nucleic acid detection technique. For real-time detection, the amplification products and the progress of amplification are detected during amplification. Real-time detection is usefully accomplished using one or more or one or a combination of fluorescent change probes and fluorescent change primers. Other detection techniques can be used, either alone or in combination with real-timer detection and/or detection involving fluorescent change probes and primers. Many techniques are known for detecting nucleic acids. The nucleotide sequence of the amplified sequences also can be determined using any suitable technique.

[0305] 1. Primary Labeling

[0306] Primary labeling consists of incorporating labeled moieties, such as fluorescent nucleotides, biotinylated nucleotides, digoxygenin-containing nucleotides, or bromodeoxyuridine, during amplification. For example, fluorescent labels can be incorporated into replicated nucleic acid by using fluorescently labeled primers, such as fluorescent change primers. In another example, one can incorporate cyanine dye UTP analogs (Yu et al. (1994)) at a frequency of 4 analogs for every 100 nucleotides. A preferred method for detecting nucleic acid amplified in situ is to label the DNA during amplification with BrdUrd, followed by binding of the incorporated BUDR with a biotinylated anti-BUDR antibody (Zymed Labs, San Francisco, Calif.), followed by binding of the biotin moieties with Streptavidin-Peroxidase (Life Sciences, Inc.), and finally development of fluorescence with Fluorescein-tyramide (DuPont de Nemours & Co., Medical Products Dept.).

[0307] Another method of labeling amplified nucleic acids is to incorporate 5-(3-aminoallyl)-dUTP (AAdUTP) in the nucleic acid during amplification followed by chemical labeling at the incorporated nucleotides. Incorporated 5-(3-aminoallyl)-deoxyuridine (AAdU) can be coupled to labels that have reactive groups that are capable of reacting with amine groups. AAdUTP can be prepared according to Langer et al. (1981). Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 78: 6633-37. Other modified nucleotides can be used in analogous ways. That is, other modified nucleotides with minimal modification can be incorporated during replication and labeled after incorporation.

[0308] Examples of labels suitable for addition to AAdUTP are radioactive isotopes, fluorescent molecules, phosphorescent molecules, enzymes, antibodies, and ligands. Examples of suitable fluorescent labels include fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), 5,6-carboxymethyl fluorescein, Texas red, nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl (NBD), coumarin, dansyl chloride, rhodamine, amino-methyl coumarin (AMCA), Eosin, Erythrosin, BODIPY, Cascade Blue, Oregon Green, pyrene, lissamine, xanthenes, acridines, oxazines, phycoerythrin, macrocyclic chelates of lanthamide ions such as quantum dye, fluorescent energy transfer dyes, such as thiazole orange-ethidium heterodimer, and the cyanine dyes Cy3, Cy3.5, Cy5, Cy5.5 and Cy7. Examples of other specific fluorescent labels include 3-Hydroxypyrene 5,8,10-Tri Sulfonic acid, 5-Hydroxy Tryptamine (5-HT), Acid Fuchsin, Alizarin Complexon, Alizarin Red, Allophycocyanin, Aminocoumarin, Anthroyl Stearate, Astrazon Brilliant Red 4G, Astrazon Orange R, Astrazon Red 6B, Astrazon Yellow 7 GLL, Atabrine, Auramine, Aurophosphine, Aurophosphine G, BAO 9 (Bisaminophenyloxadiazole), BCECF, Berberine Sulphate, Bisbenzamide, Blancophor FFG Solution, Blancophor SV, Bodipy F1, Brilliant Sulphoflavin FF, Calcien Blue, Calcium Green, Calcofluor RW Solution, Calcofluor White, Calcophor White ABT Solution, Calcophor White Standard Solution, Carbostyryl, Cascade Yellow, Catecholamine, Chinacrine, Coriphosphine O, Coumarin-Phalloidin, CY3.1 8, CY5.1 8, CY7, Dans (1-Dimethyl Amino Naphaline 5 Sulphonic Acid), Dansa (Diamino Naphtyl Sulphonic Acid), Dansyl NHCH3, Diamino Phenyl Oxydiazole (DAO), Dimethylamino-5-Sulphonic acid, Dipyrrometheneboron Difluoride, Diphenyl Brilliant Flavine 7GFF, Dopamine, Erythrosin ITC, Euchrysin, FIF (Formaldehyde Induced Fluorescence), Flazo Orange, Fluo 3, Fluorescamine, Fura-2, Genacryl Brilliant Red B, Genacryl Brilliant Yellow 10GF, Genacryl Pink 3G, Genacryl Yellow 5GF, Gloxalic Acid, Granular Blue, Haematoporphyrin, Indo-1, Intrawhite Cf Liquid, Leucophor PAF, Leucophor SF, Leucophor WS, Lissamine Rhodamine B200 (RD200), Lucifer Yellow CH, Lucifer Yellow VS, Magdala Red, Marina Blue, Maxilon Brilliant Flavin 10 GFF, Maxilon Brilliant Flavin 8 GFF, MPS (Methyl Green Pyronine Stilbene), Mithramycin, NBD Amine, Nitrobenzoxadidole, Noradrenaline, Nuclear Fast Red, Nuclear Yellow, Nylosan Brilliant Flavin E8G, Oxadiazole, Pacific Blue, Pararosaniline (Feulgen), Phorwite AR Solution, Phorwite BKL, Phorwite Rev, Phorwite RPA, Phosphine 3R, Phthalocyanine, Phycoerythrin R, Polyazaindacene Pontochrome Blue Black, Porphyrin, Primuline, Procion Yellow, Pyronine, Pyronine B, Pyrozal Brilliant Flavin 7GF, Quinacrine Mustard, Rhodamine 123, Rhodamine 5 GLD, Rhodamine 6G, Rhodamine B, Rhodamine B 200, Rhodamine B Extra, Rhodamine BB, Rhodamine BG, Rhodamine WT, Serotonin, Sevron Brilliant Red 2B, Sevron Brilliant Red 4G, Sevron Brilliant Red B, Sevron Orange, Sevron Yellow L, SITS (Primuline), SITS (Stilbene Isothiosulphonic acid), Stilbene, Snarf 1, sulpho Rhodamine B Can C, Sulpho Rhodamine G Extra, Tetracycline, Thiazine Red R, Thioflavin S, Thioflavin TCN, Thioflavin 5, Thiolyte, Thiozol Orange, Tinopol CBS, True Blue, Ultralite, Uranine B, Uvitex SFC, Xylene Orange, and XRITC.

[0309] Preferred fluorescent labels are fluorescein (5-carboxyfluorescein-N-hydroxysuccinimide ester), rhodamine (5,6-tetramethyl rhodamine), and the cyanine dyes Cy3, Cy3.5, Cy5, Cy5.5 and Cy7. The absorption and emission maxima, respectively, for these fluors are: FITC (490 nm; 520 nm), Cy3 (554 nm; 568 nm), Cy3.5 (581 nm; 588 nm), Cy5 (652 nm: 672 nm), Cy5.5 (682 nm; 703 nm) and Cy7 (755 nm; 778 mn), thus allowing their simultaneous detection. Other examples of fluorescein dyes include 6-carboxyfluorescein (6-FAM), 2,4,1,4,-tetrachlorofluorescein (TET), 2,4,5,7,1,4-hexachlorofluorescein (HEX), 2,7-dimethoxy-4,5-dichloro-6-carboxyrhodamine (JOE), 2-chloro-5-fluoro-7,8-fused phenyl-1,4-dichloro-6-carboxyfluorescein (NED), and 2-chloro-7-phenyl-1,4-dichloro-6-carboxyfluorescein (VIC). Fluorescent labels can be obtained from a variety of commercial sources, including Amersham Pharmacia Biotech, Piscataway, N.J.; Molecular Probes, Eugene, Oreg.; and Research Organics, Cleveland, Ohio.

[0310] A useful form of primary labeling is the use of fluorescent change primers during amplification. Fluorescent change primers exhibit a change in fluorescence intensity or wavelength based on a change in the form or conformation of the primer and the amplified nucleic acid. Stem quenched primers are primers that when not hybridized to a complementary sequence form a stem structure (either an intramolecular stem structure or an intermolecular stem structure) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the primer binds to a complementary sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. In the disclosed method, stem quenched primers can be used as primers for nucleic acid synthesis and thus become incorporated into the synthesized or amplified nucleic acid. Examples of stem quenched primers are peptide nucleic acid quenched primers and hairpin quenched primers.

[0311] Peptide nucleic acid quenched primers are primers associated with a peptide nucleic acid quencher or a peptide nucleic acid fluor to form a stem structure. The primer contains a fluorescent label or a quenching moiety and is associated with either a peptide nucleic acid quencher or a peptide nucleic acid fluor, respectively. This puts the fluorescent label in proximity to the quenching moiety. When the primer is replicated, the peptide nucleic acid is displaced, thus allowing the fluorescent label to produce a fluorescent signal.

[0312] Hairpin quenched primers are primers that when not hybridized to a complementary sequence form a hairpin structure (and, typically, a loop) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the primer binds to a complementary sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. Hairpin quenched primers are typically used as primers for nucleic acid synthesis and thus become incorporated into the synthesized or amplified nucleic acid. Examples of hairpin quenched primers are Amplifluor primers and scorpion primers.

[0313] Cleavage activated primers are primers where fluorescence is increased by cleavage of the primer. Generally, cleavage activated primers are incorporated into replicated strands and are then subsequently cleaved. Cleavage activated primers can include a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety in proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the primer is clipped or digested (typically by the 5-3 exonuclease activity of a polymerase during amplification), the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. Little et al., Clin. Chem. 45:777-784 (1999), describe the use of cleavage activated primers. Use of cleavage activated primers is not preferred in the disclosed method.

[0314] 2. Secondary Labeling

[0315] Secondary labeling consists of using suitable molecular probes, referred to as detection probes, to detect the amplified nucleic acids. For example, a primer may be designed to contain, in its non-complementary portion, a known arbitrary sequence, referred to as a detection tag. A secondary hybridization step can be used to bind detection probes to these detection tags. The detection probes may be labeled as described above with, for example, an enzyme, fluorescent moieties, or radioactive isotopes. By using three detection tags per primer, and four fluorescent moieties per each detection probe, one may obtain a total of twelve fluorescent signals for every replicated strand. Detection probes can interact by hybridization or annealing via normal Watson-Crick base-pairing (or related alternatives) or can interact with double-stranded targets to form a triple helix. Such triplex-forming detection probes can be used in the same manner as other detection probes, such as in the form of fluorescent change probes.

[0316] A useful form of secondary labeling is the use of fluorescent change probes and primers in or following amplification. Hairpin quenched probes are probes that when not bound to a target sequence form a hairpin structure (and, typically, a loop) that brings a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety into proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the probe binds to a target sequence, the stem is disrupted, the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. Examples of hairpin quenched probes are molecular beacons, fluorescent triplex oligos, and QPNA probes.

[0317] Cleavage activated probes are probes where fluorescence is increased by cleavage of the probe. Cleavage activated probes can include a fluorescent label and a quenching moiety in proximity such that fluorescence from the label is quenched. When the probe is clipped or digested (typically by the 5-3 exonuclease activity of a polymerase during or following amplification), the quenching moiety is no longer in proximity to the fluorescent label and fluorescence increases. TaqMan probes are an example of cleavage activated probes.

[0318] Cleavage quenched probes are probes where fluorescence is decreased or altered by cleavage of the probe. Cleavage quenched probes can include an acceptor fluorescent label and a donor moiety such that, when the acceptor and donor are in proximity, fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the donor to the acceptor causes the acceptor to fluoresce. The probes are thus fluorescent, for example, when hybridized to a target sequence. When the probe is clipped or digested (typically by the 5-3 exonuclease activity of a polymerase during or after amplification), the donor moiety is no longer in proximity to the acceptor fluorescent label and fluorescence from the acceptor decreases. If the donor moiety is itself a fluorescent label, it can release energy as fluorescence (typically at a different wavelength than the fluorescence of the acceptor) when not in proximity to an acceptor. The overall effect would then be a reduction of acceptor fluorescence and an increase in donor fluorescence. Donor fluorescence in the case of cleavage quenched probes is equivalent to fluorescence generated by cleavage activated probes with the acceptor being the quenching moiety and the donor being the fluorescent label. Cleavable FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) probes are an example of cleavage quenched probes.

[0319] Fluorescent activated probes are probes or pairs of probes where fluorescence is increased or altered by hybridization of the probe to a target sequence. Fluorescent activated probes can include an acceptor fluorescent label and a donor moiety such that, when the acceptor and donor are in proximity (when the probes are hybridized to a target sequence), fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the donor to the acceptor causes the acceptor to fluoresce. Fluorescent activated probes are typically pairs of probes designed to hybridize to adjacent sequences such that the acceptor and donor are brought into proximity. Fluorescent activated probes can also be single probes containing both a donor and acceptor where, when the probe is not hybridized to a target sequence, the donor and acceptor are not in proximity but where the donor and acceptor are brought into proximity when the probe hybridized to a target sequence. This can be accomplished, for example, by placing the donor and acceptor on opposite ends a the probe and placing target complement sequences at each end of the probe where the target complement sequences are complementary to adjacent sequences in a target sequence. If the donor moiety of a fluorescent activated probe is itself a fluorescent label, it can release energy as fluorescence (typically at a different wavelength than the fluorescence of the acceptor) when not in proximity to an acceptor (that is, when the probes are not hybridized to the target sequence). When the probes hybridize to a target sequence, the overall effect would then be a reduction of donor fluorescence and an increase in acceptor fluorescence. FRET probes are an example of fluorescent activated probes. Stem quenched primers (such as peptide nucleic acid quenched primers and hairpin quenched primers) can be used as secondary labels.

[0320] 3. Multiplexing and Hybridization Array Detection

[0321] Detection of amplified nucleic acids can be multiplexed by, for example, using sets of different probes, each set designed for binding to different target sequences. Only those probes that are able to find their targets will associate signal with the amplified products. Amplified sequences can also be distinguished by sequence-specific capture on arrays or other solid-state substrates. There are at least two useful alternatives for capturing a given amplified nucleic acid to a fixed position in a solid-state detector. One is to include within the non-complementary portion of the primers a unique address tag sequence for each unique set of primers. Nucleic acid amplified using a given set of primers will then contain sequences corresponding to a specific address tag sequence. A second and preferred alternative is to use a sequence present in the amplified nucleic acid as an address tag. The disclosed method can be easily multiplexed by, for example, using sets of different detection probes directed to different target sequences. Use of different fluorescent labels with different detection probes allows specific detection of different target sequences.

[0322] 4. Combinatorial Multicolor Coding

[0323] One form of multiplex detection involves the use of a combination of labels that either fluoresce at different wavelengths or are colored differently. One of the advantages of fluorescence for the detection of hybridization probes is that several targets can be visualized simultaneously in the same sample. Using a combinatorial strategy, many more targets can be discriminated than the number of spectrally resolvable fluorophores. Combinatorial labeling provides the simplest way to label probes in a multiplex fashion since a probe fluor is either completely absent () or present in unit amounts (); image analysis is thus more amenable to automation, and a number of experimental artifacts, such as differential photobleaching of the fluors and the effects of changing excitation source power spectrum, are avoided. Combinatorial labeling can be used with fluorescent change probes and primers.

[0324] The combinations of labels establish a code for identifying different detection probes and, by extension, different target molecules to which those detection probes are associated with. This labeling scheme is referred to as Combinatorial Multicolor Coding (CMC). Such coding is described by Speicher et al., Nature Genetics 12:368-375 (1996). Use of CMC is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,143,495. Any number of labels, which when combined can be separately detected, can be used for combinatorial multicolor coding. It is preferred that 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 labels be used in combination. It is most preferred that 6 labels be used. The number of labels used establishes the number of unique label combinations that can be formed according to the formula 2N1, where N is the number of labels. According to this formula, 2 labels forms three label combinations, 3 labels forms seven label combinations, 4 labels forms 15 label combinations, 5 labels form 31 label combinations, and 6 labels forms 63 label combinations.

[0325] For combinatorial multicolor coding, a group of different detection probes are used as a set. Each type of detection probe in the set is labeled with a specific and unique combination of fluorescent labels. For those detection probes assigned multiple labels, the labeling can be accomplished by labeling each detection probe molecule with all of the required labels. Alternatively, pools of detection probes of a given type can each be labeled with one of the required labels. By combining the pools, the detection probes will, as a group, contain the combination of labels required for that type of detection probe. Where each detection probe is labeled with a single label, label combinations can also be generated by using primers with coded combinations of detection tags complementary to the different detection probes. In this scheme, the primers will contain a combination of detection tags representing the combination of labels required for a specific label code. Further illustrations are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,143,495. Use of pools of detection probes each probe with a single label is preferred when fluorescent change probes are used.

[0326] Speicher et al. describes a set of fluors and corresponding optical filters spaced across the spectral interval 350-770 nm that give a high degree of discrimination between all possible fluor pairs. This fluor set, which is preferred for combinatorial multicolor coding, consists of 4-6-diamidino-2-phenylinodole (DAPI), fluorescein (FITC), and the cyanine dyes Cy3, Cy3.5, Cy5, Cy5.5 and Cy7. Any subset of this preferred set can also be used where fewer combinations are required. The absorption and emission maxima, respectively, for these fluors are: DAPI (350 nm; 456 nm), FITC (490 nm; 520 nm), Cy3 (554 nm; 568 nm), Cy3.5 (581 nm; 588 nm), Cy5 (652 nm; 672 nm), Cy5.5 (682 nm; 703 nm) and Cy7 (755 nm; 778 nm). The excitation and emission spectra, extinction coefficients and quantum yield of these fluors are described by Ernst et al., Cytometry 10:3-10 (1989), Mujumdar et al., Cytometry 10:11-19 (1989), Yu, Nucleic Acids Res. 22:3226-3232 (1994), and Waggoner, Meth. Enzymology 246:362-373 (1995). These fluors can all be excited with a 75W Xenon arc.

[0327] To attain selectivity, filters with bandwidths in the range of 5 to 16 nm are preferred. To increase signal discrimination, the fluors can be both excited and detected at wavelengths far from their spectral maxima. Emission bandwidths can be made as wide as possible. For low-noise detectors, such as cooled CCD cameras, restricting the excitation bandwidth has little effect on attainable signal to noise ratios. A list of preferred filters for use with the preferred fluor set is listed in Table 1 of Speicher et al. It is important to prevent infra-red light emitted by the arc lamp from reaching the detector; CCD chips are extremely sensitive in this region. For this purpose, appropriate IR blocking filters can be inserted in the image path immediately in front of the CCD window to minimize loss of image quality. Image analysis software can then be used to count and analyze the spectral signatures of fluorescent dots.

[0328] G. Enzyme-Linked Detection

[0329] Amplified nucleic acid labeled by incorporation of labeled nucleotides can be detected with established enzyme-linked detection systems. For example, amplified nucleic acid labeled by incorporation of biotin using biotin-16-UTP (Roche Molecular Biochemicals) can be detected as follows. The nucleic acid is immobilized on a solid glass surface by hybridization with a complementary DNA oligonucleotide (address probe) complementary to a target sequence (or its complement) present in the amplified nucleic acid. After hybridization, the glass slide is washed and contacted with alkaline phosphatase-streptavidin conjugate (Tropix, Inc., Bedford, Mass.). This enzyme-streptavidin conjugate binds to the biotin moieties on the amplified nucleic acid. The slide is again washed to remove excess enzyme conjugate and the chemiluminescent substrate CSPD (Tropix, Inc.) is added and covered with a glass cover slip. The slide can then be imaged in a Biorad Fluorimager.

[0330] H. Reverse Transcription Multiple Displacement Amplification

[0331] Multiple displacement amplification can be performed on RNA or on DNA strands reverse transcribed from RNA. A useful form of the disclosed method, referred to as reverse transcription multiple displacement amplification (RT-MDA) involves reverse transcribing RNA, removal of the RNA (preferably by nuclease disgestion using an RNA-specific nuclease such as RNAse H), and multiple displacement amplification of the reverse transcribed DNA. RT-MDA can be performed using either double-stranded cDNA or using just the first cDNA strand. In the latter case, the second cDNA strand need not be, and preferably is not, synthesized. RT-MDA is useful for quantitative analysis of mRNA or general amplification of mRNA sequences for any other purpose.

[0332] I. Repeat Multiple Displacement Amplification

[0333] The disclosed multiple displacement amplification reactions can also be sequentially combined. For example, the product of MDA can itself be amplified in another multiple displacement amplification. This is referred to herein as repeat multiple displacement amplification (RMDA). This can be accomplished, for example, by diluting the replicated strands following MDA and subjecting them to a new MDA. This can be repeated one or more times. Each round of MDA will increase the amplification. Different forms of MDA, such as WGSDA and MSDA on particular target sequences can be combined. In general, repeat MDA can be accomplished by first bringing into contact one, a few, or more primers, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules results in replicated strands, wherein during replication at least one of the replicated strands is displaced from the nucleic acid molecules by strand displacement replication of another replicated strand; and then diluting the replicated strands, bringing into contact one, a few, or more primers, DNA polymerase, and the diluted replicated strands, and incubating the replicated strands under conditions that promote replication of the replicated strands. Replication of the replicated strands results in additional replicated strands, wherein during replication at least one of the additional replicated strands is displaced from the replicated strands by strand displacement replication of another additional replicated strand. This form of the method can be extended by performing the following operation one or more times: diluting the additional replicated strands, bringing into contact one, a few, or more primers, DNA polymerase, and the diluted replicated strands, and incubating the replicated strands under conditions that promote replication of the replicated strands. Replication of the replicated strands results in additional replicated strands, wherein during replication at least one of the additional replicated strands is displaced from the replicated strands by strand displacement replication of another additional replicated strand.

[0334] J. Using Products of Multiple Displacement Amplification

[0335] The nucleic acids produced using the disclosed method can be used for any purpose. For example, the amplified nucleic acids can be analyzed (such as by sequencing or probe hybridization) to determine characteristics of the amplified sequences or the presence or absence or certain sequences. The amplified nucleic acids can also be used as reagents for assays or other methods. For example, nucleic acids produced in the disclosed method can be coupled or adhered to a solid-state substrate. The resulting immobilized nucleic acids can be used as probes or indexes of sequences in a sample. Nucleic acids produced in the disclosed method can be coupled or adhered to a solid-state substrate in any suitable way. For example, nucleic acids generated by multiple strand displacement can be attached by adding modified nucleotides to the 3 ends of nucleic acids produced by strand displacement replication using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase, and reacting the modified nucleotides with a solid-state substrate or support thereby attaching the nucleic acids to the solid-state substrate or support.

[0336] Nucleic acids produced in the disclosed method also can be used as probes or hybridization partners. For example, sequences of interest can be amplified in the disclosed method and provide a ready source of probes. The replicated strands (produced in the disclosed method) can be cleaved prior to use as hybridization probes. For example, the replicated strands can be cleaved with DNAse I. The hybridization probes can be labeled as described elsewhere herein with respect to labeling of nucleic acids produce in the disclosed method.

[0337] Nucleic acids produced in the disclosed method also can be used for subtractive hybridization to identify sequences that are present in only one of a pair or set of samples. For example, amplified cDNA from different samples can be annealed and the resulting double-stranded material can be separated from single-stranded material. Unhybridized sequences would be indicative of sequences expressed in one of the samples but not others.

[0338] Disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample. The primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0339] The genome can be a eukaryotic genome, a plant genome, an animal genome, a vertebrate genome, a fish genome, a mammalian genome, a human genome, a microbial genome or a viral genome. The amplification bias can be less than 20-fold for at least ten nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample. The amplification bias can be less than 10-fold for at least ten nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample. The primer has a length of 3 nucleotides, 4 nucleotides, 5 nucleotides, 6 nucleotides, 7 nucleotides, 8 nucleotides, 9 nucleotides, 10 nucleotides, 11 nucleotides, 12 nucleotides, 13 nucleotides, 14 nucleotides, 15 nucleotides, 16 nucleotides, 17 nucleotides, 18 nucleotides, 19 nucleotides, 20 nucleotides, 21 nucleotides, 22 nucleotides, 23 nucleotides, 24 nucleotides, 25 nucleotides, 26 nucleotides, 27 nucleotides, 28 nucleotides, 29 nucleotides, or 30 nucleotides.

[0340] The primer can have a length of less than 4 nucleotides, less than 5 nucleotides, less than 6 nucleotides, less than 7 nucleotides, less than 8 nucleotides, less than 9 nucleotides, less than 10 nucleotides, less than 11 nucleotides, less than 12 nucleotides, less than 13 nucleotides, less than 14 nucleotides, less than 15 nucleotides, less than 16 nucleotides, less than 17 nucleotides, less than 18 nucleotides, less than 19 nucleotides, less than 20 nucleotides, less than 21 nucleotides, less than 22 nucleotides, less than 23 nucleotides, less than 24 nucleotides, less than 25 nucleotides, less than 26 nucleotides, less than 27 nucleotides, less than 28 nucleotides, less than 29 nucleotides, less than 30 nucleotides, or less than 31 nucleotides.

[0341] The genomic nucleic acid sample can be incubated at 20 C., 21 C., 22 C., 23 C., 24 C., 25 C., 26 C., 27 C., 28 C., 29 C., 30 C., 31 C., 32 C., 33 C., 34 C., 35 C., 36 C., 37 C., 38 C., 39 C., 40 C., 41 C., 42 C., 43 C., 44 C., 45 C., 46 C., 47 C., 48 C., 49 C., 50 C., 51 C., 52 C., 53 C., 54 C., 55 C., 56 C., 57 C., 58 C., 59 C., 60 C., 61 C., 62 C., 63 C., 64 C., 65 C., 66 C., 67 C., 68 C., 69 C., 70 C., 71 C., 72 C., 73 C., 74 C., 75 C., 76 C., 77 C., 78 C., 79 C., or 80 C.

[0342] The genomic nucleic acid sample can be incubated at less than 21 C., less than 22 C., less than 23 C., less than 24 C., less than 25 C., less than 26 C., less than 27 C., less than 28 C., less than 29 C., less than 30 C., less than 31 C., less than 32 C., less than 33 C., less than 34 C., less than 35 C., less than 36 C., less than 37 C., less than 38 C., less than 39 C., less than 40 C., less than 41 C., less than 42 C., less than 43 C., less than 44 C., less than 45 C., less than 46 C., less than 47 C., less than 48 C., less than 49 C., less than 50 C., less than 51 C., less than 52 C., less than 53 C., less than 54 C., less than 55 C., less than 56 C., less than 57 C., less than 58 C., less than 59 C., less than 60 C., less than 61 C., less than 62 C., less than 63 C., less than 64 C., less than 65 C., less than 66 C., less than 67 C., less than 68 C., less than 69 C., less than 70 C., less than 71 C., less than 72 C., less than 73 C., less than 74 C., less than 75 C., less than 76 C., less than 77 C., less than 78 C., less than 79 C., or less than 80 C.

[0343] The genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110³ nucleotides, the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides, the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or the genomic nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides.

[0344] The primer, DNA polymerase and genomic nucleic acid sample are brought into contact with 1 additional primer, with 2 additional primers, with 3 additional primers, with 4 additional primers, with 5 additional primers, with 6 additional primers, with 7 additional primers, with 8 additional primers, with 9 additional primers, with 10 additional primers, with 11 additional primers, with 12 additional primers, with 13 additional primers, with 14 additional primers, with 15 additional primers, with 16 additional primers, with 17 additional primers, with 18 additional primers, with 19 additional primers, with 20 additional primers, with 21 additional primers, with 22 additional primers, with 23 additional primers, with 24 additional primers, with 25 additional primers, with 26 additional primers, with 27 additional primers, with 28 additional primers, with 29 additional primers, with 30 additional primers, with 31 additional primers, with 32 additional primers, with 33 additional primers, with 34 additional primers, with 35 additional primers, with 36 additional primers, with 37 additional primers, with 38 additional primers, with 39 additional primers, with 40 additional primers, with 41 additional primers, with 42 additional primers, with 43 additional primers, with 44 additional primers, with 45 additional primers, with 46 additional primers, with 47 additional primers, with 48 additional primers, with 49 additional primers, with 50 additional primers, with 51 additional primers, with 52 additional primers, with 53 additional primers, with 54 additional primers, with 55 additional primers, with 56 additional primers, with 57 additional primers, with 58 additional primers, with 59 additional primers, with 60 additional primers, with 61 additional primers, with 62 additional primers, with 63 additional primers, with 75 additional primers, with 100 additional primers, with 150 additional primers, with 200 additional primers, with 300 additional primers, with 400 additional primers, with 500 additional primers, with 750 additional primers, or with 1,000 additional primers, wherein each primer can have a different specific nucleotide sequence.

[0345] The primers are all of the same length.

[0346] The primer, DNA polymerase and genomic nucleic acid sample are brought into contact with fewer than 2 additional primers, with fewer than 3 additional primers, with fewer than 4 additional primers, with fewer than 5 additional primers, with fewer than 6 additional primers, with fewer than 7 additional primers, with fewer than 8 additional primers, with fewer than 9 additional primers, with fewer than 10 additional primers, with fewer than 91 additional primers, with fewer than 12 additional primers, with fewer than 13 additional primers, with fewer than 14 additional primers, with fewer than 15 additional primers, with fewer than 16 additional primers, with fewer than 17 additional primers, with fewer than 18 additional primers, with fewer than 19 additional primers, with fewer than 20 additional primers, with fewer than 21 additional primers, with fewer than 22 additional primers, with fewer than 23 additional primers, with fewer than 24 additional primers, with fewer than 25 additional primers, with fewer than 26 additional primers, with fewer than 27 additional primers, with fewer than 28 additional primers, with fewer than 29 additional primers, with fewer than 30 additional primers, with fewer than 31 additional primers, with fewer than 32 additional primers, with fewer than 33 additional primers, with fewer than 34 additional primers, with fewer than 35 additional primers, with fewer than 36 additional primers, with fewer than 37 additional primers, with fewer than 38 additional primers, with fewer than 39 additional primers, with fewer than 40 additional primers, with fewer than 41 additional primers, with fewer than 42 additional primers, with fewer than 43 additional primers, with fewer than 44 additional primers, with fewer than 45 additional primers, with fewer than 46 additional primers, with fewer than 47 additional primers, with fewer than 48 additional primers, with fewer than 49 additional primers, with fewer than 50 additional primers, with fewer than 51 additional primers, with fewer than 52 additional primers, with fewer than 53 additional primers, with fewer than 54 additional primers, with fewer than 55 additional primers, with fewer than 56 additional primers, with fewer than 57 additional primers, with fewer than 58 additional primers, with fewer than 59 additional primers, with fewer than 60 additional primers, with fewer than 61 additional primers, with fewer than 62 additional primers, with fewer than 63 additional primers, with fewer than 64 additional primers, with fewer than 75 additional primers, with fewer than 100 additional primers, with fewer than 150 additional primers, with fewer than 200 additional primers, with fewer than 300 additional primers, with fewer than 400 additional primers, with fewer than 500 additional primers, with fewer than 750 additional primers, or with fewer than 1,000 additional primers, wherein each primer can have a different specific nucleotide sequence.

[0347] Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGTGGG or AGAGAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGCCGG, AGTAGG, or AGTTGG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGGCGG, AGTGGG, AGGGAG, or AGTGAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGTGGG, AGCCAG, AGTTAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGAGGG, AGGCAG, AGCCAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGTAGG, AGGTGG, AGGCAG, AGACAG, or AGTGAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences AGGAGG, AGAGGG, AGGGAG, AGTCAG, or AGCGAG. Each primer can have a different one of the sequences CGGTGG, TCACGC, CGAGCG, GCGTGG, ACTCGG, AATCGC, CGGAGG, CCGAGA, GATCGC, AGAGCG, AGCGAG, or ACTCCG.

[0348] Each primer can have one of the sequences AGTGGG or AGAGAG. Each primer can have one of the sequences AGCCGG, AGTAGG, or AGTTGG. Each primer can have one of the sequences AGGCGG, AGTGGG, AGGGAG, or AGTGAG. Each primer can have one of the sequences AGTGGG, AGCCAG, AGTTAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG. Each primer can have one of the sequences AGAGGG, AGGCAG, AGCCAG, AGTCAG, or AGACAG. Each primer can have one of the sequences CGGTGG, TCACGC, CGAGCG, GCGTGG, ACTCGG, AATCGC, CGGAGG, CCGAGA, GATCGC, AGAGCG, AGCGAG, or ACTCCG.

[0349] The primer can be complementary to a sequence in a repeat sequence.

[0350] The repeat sequence can be a microsatellite sequence, a minisatellite sequence, a satellite sequence, a transposon sequence, a ribosomal RNA sequence, a short interspersed nuclear element (SINE), or a long interspersed nuclear element (LINE). The primer can be complementary to a sequence in a functional consensus sequence. The functional consensus sequence can be a promoter sequence, an enhancer sequence, a silencer sequence, an upstream regulatory element sequence, a transcription termination site sequence, a transposon regulatory sequence, a ribosomal RNA regulatory sequence, or a polyadenylation site sequence. The functional consensus sequence can be a microbial promoter sequence, a microbial enhancer sequence, a microbial silencer sequence, a microbial upstream regulatory element sequence, a microbial transcription termination site sequence, a microbial transposon regulatory sequence, a microbial ribosomal RNA regulatory sequence, or a microbial polyadenylation site sequence.

[0351] The primer can be a broad coverage primer. The primer can be complementary to a sequence that occurs every 5,000 nucleotides or less, every 4,000 nucleotides or less, every 3,000 nucleotides or less, every 2,500 nucleotides or less, every 2,000 nucleotides or less, every 1,500 nucleotides or less, every 1,000 nucleotides or less, every 900 nucleotides or less, every 800 nucleotides or less, every 700 nucleotides or less, every 600 nucleotides or less, every 500 nucleotides or less, every 400 nucleotides or less, every 300 nucleotides or less, every 200 nucleotides or less, every 100 nucleotides or less, or every 50 nucleotides or less, on average, in the nucleic acid molecules of the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0352] The primer can have a GC percentage within 20%, within 15%, within 10%, within 9%, within 8%, within 7%, within 6%, within 5%, within 4%, within 3%, within 2%, or within 1% of the GC percentage of the genomic nucleic acid sample. The primer produces a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 5 different loci for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used. The primer produces a locus representation of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% for at least 5 different loci for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used. The primer produces a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used.

[0353] The primer produces an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used. The primer produces an amplification bias of less than 45-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 25-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 19-fold, less than 18-fold, less than 17-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 15-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 13-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 5-fold, or less than 4-fold for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used. The primer produces an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different loci, for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci for the type of genomic nucleic acid sample used.

[0354] The primer does not have an inter-complementary 3 end. The primer does not produce significant replication products in the absence of a nucleic acid sample. The DNA polymerase can be 29 DNA polymerase. The genomic nucleic acid sample need not be subjected to denaturing conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample need not be subjected to heat denaturing conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample need not be subjected to alkaline denaturing conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be subjected to denaturing conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be subjected to heat denaturing conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be subjected to alkaline denaturing conditions.

[0355] Nucleic acids in the genomic nucleic acid sample are not separated from other material in the genomic nucleic acid sample. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be a crude cell lysate. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be produced by exposing cells to alkaline conditions to form a cell lysate, wherein the cell lysate can comprise a whole genome, and reducing the pH of the cell lysate to form a stabilized cell lysate. The cells are exposed to alkaline conditions by mixing the cells with a lysis solution. The lysis solution can comprise a base. The pH of the cell lysate can be reduced by mixing the cell lysate with a stabilization solution. The stabilization solution can comprise a buffer. The stabilization solution can comprise an acid.

[0356] Nucleic acids in the cell lysate and the stabilized cell lysate are not separated from other material in the cell lysate. The cell lysate and the stabilized cell lysate are not subjected to purification prior to the incubation. The cell lysate, stabilized cell lysate, or both are subjected to partial purification prior to the incubation. The cell lysate and the stabilized cell lysate are not subjected to substantial purification prior to the incubation. The incubation can be substantially isothermic. Neither the cell lysate nor the stabilized cell lysate can be heated substantially above the temperature of the incubation. Neither the cell lysate nor the stabilized cell lysate can be subjected to substantial heating above the temperature of the incubation. The cells are not heated substantially above the temperature of the incubation. The cells are not subjected to substantial heating above the temperature of the incubation. The cells are not heated substantially above the temperature at which the cells grow. The cells are not subjected to substantial heating above the temperature at which the cells grow.

[0357] Neither the cell lysate nor the stabilized cell lysate can be heated above a temperature and for a time that would cause notable denaturation of the genome. Neither the cell lysate nor the stabilized cell lysate can be subjected to heating above a temperature and for a time that would cause notable denaturation of the genome. The cells are not lysed by heat. The cells are not heated above a temperature and for a time that would cause substantial cell lysis in the absence of the alkaline conditions. The cells are not subjected to heating above a temperature and for a time that would cause substantial cell lysis in the absence of the alkaline conditions.

[0358] The method can further comprise, prior to bringing into contact the primer, the genomic nucleic acid sample and the DNA polymerase, exposing the genomic nucleic acid sample to conditions that promote substantial denaturation of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, thereby forming a denatured genomic nucleic acid sample, and altering the conditions to conditions that do not promote substantial denaturation of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample to form a denatured genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0359] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in a longer average fragment length for the replicated nucleic acid molecules than the average fragment length in the genomic nucleic acid sample. The genomic nucleic acid sample, the denatured genomic nucleic acid sample, or both are exposed to ionic conditions. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be exposed to conditions that promote substantial denaturation by mixing the genomic nucleic acid sample with a denaturing solution and by heating the genomic nucleic acid sample to a temperature and for a length of time that substantially denatures the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0360] The primer contains at least one modified nucleotide such that the primer can be resistant to 3-5 exonuclease. The primer can be 6 nucleotides long, wherein the primer contains at least one modified nucleotide such that the primer can be nuclease resistant, and wherein the DNA polymerase can be 29 DNA polymerase. The conditions that promote replication of the nucleic acid molecules are substantially isothermic. The conditions that promote replication of the nucleic acid molecules do not involve thermal cycling. The conditions that promote replication of the nucleic acid molecules do not include thermal cycling. The primer can comprise nucleotides, wherein one or more of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides. From about 10% to about 50% of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides. About 50% or more of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides. All of the nucleotides are ribonucleotides.

[0361] The primer can comprise nucleotides, wherein one or more of the nucleotides are 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. From about 10% to about 50% of the nucleotides are 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. About 50% or more of the nucleotides are 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. All of the nucleotides are 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. The primer can comprise nucleotides, wherein the nucleotides are a mixture of ribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. The primer can comprise nucleotides, wherein the nucleotides are a mixture of deoxyribonucleotides and 2-O-methyl ribonucleotides. The genomic nucleic acid sample can be a blood sample, a urine sample, a semen sample, a lymphatic fluid sample, a cerebrospinal fluid sample, amniotic fluid sample, a biopsy sample, a needle aspiration biopsy sample, a cancer sample, a tumor sample, a tissue sample, a cell sample, a cell lysate sample, a crude cell lysate sample, a forensic sample, an archeological sample, an infection sample, a nosocomial infection sample, a production sample, a drug preparation sample, a biological molecule production sample, a protein preparation sample, a lipid preparation sample, a carbohydrate preparation sample, or a combination thereof.

[0362] The genomic nucleic acid sample can be a crude cell lysate. The genomic nucleic acid sample need not be processed beyond cell lysis. The replicated nucleic acid molecules are analyzed. The replicated nucleic acid molecules are analyzed using one or more DNA chips. The replicated nucleic acid molecules are analyzed by hybridization. The replicated nucleic acid molecules are analyzed by nucleic acid sequencing. The replicated nucleic acid molecules are stored prior to, following, or both prior to and following their analysis.

[0363] The method can further comprise bringing into contact the primer, DNA polymerase, and a second genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the second genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the second genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the second genomic nucleic acid sample can comprise all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the second genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the second genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the second genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0364] The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from the same type of organism as the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from the same type of tissue as the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from the same organism as the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be obtained at a different time than the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from a different organism than the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from a different type of tissue than the first genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0365] The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from a different species of organism than the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from a different strain of organism than the first genomic nucleic acid sample. The second genomic nucleic acid sample can be a sample from a different cellular compartment than the first genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0366] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact fewer than 1,000 primers, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein each primer has a different specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0367] The DNA polymerase and genomic nucleic acid sample are brought into contact with fewer than 2 primers, with fewer than 3 primers, with fewer than 4 primers, with fewer than 5 primers, with fewer than 6 primers, with fewer than 7 primers, with fewer than 8 primers, with fewer than 9 primers, with fewer than 10 primers, with fewer than 11 primers, with fewer than 12 primers, with fewer than 13 primers, with fewer than 14 primers, with fewer than 15 primers, with fewer than 16 primers, with fewer than 17 primers, with fewer than 18 primers, with fewer than 19 primers, with fewer than 20 primers, with fewer than 21 primers, with fewer than 22 primers, with fewer than 23 primers, with fewer than 24 primers, with fewer than 25 primers, with fewer than 26 primers, with fewer than 27 primers, with fewer than 28 primers, with fewer than 29 primers, with fewer than 30 primers, with fewer than 31 primers, with fewer than 32 primers, with fewer than 33 primers, with fewer than 34 primers, with fewer than 35 primers, with fewer than 36 primers, with fewer than 37 primers, with fewer than 38 primers, with fewer than 39 primers, with fewer than 40 primers, with fewer than 41 primers, with fewer than 42 primers, with fewer than 43 primers, with fewer than 44 primers, with fewer than 45 primers, with fewer than 46 primers, with fewer than 47 primers, with fewer than 48 primers, with fewer than 49 primers, with fewer than 50 primers, with fewer than 51 primers, with fewer than 52 primers, with fewer than 53 primers, with fewer than 54 primers, with fewer than 55 primers, with fewer than 56 primers, with fewer than 57 primers, with fewer than 58 primers, with fewer than 59 primers, with fewer than 60 primers, with fewer than 61 primers, with fewer than 62 primers, with fewer than 63 primers, with fewer than 64 primers, with fewer than 75 primers, with fewer than 100 primers, with fewer than 150 primers, with fewer than 200 primers, with fewer than 300 primers, with fewer than 400 primers, with fewer than 500 primers, with fewer than 750 primers, or with fewer than 1,000 primers.

[0368] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying nucleic acid samples of notable sequence complexity, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁴ nucleotides, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample.

[0369] The nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, the nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, the nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, the nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, or the nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides. The nucleic acid sample is or is derived from a genome, a chromosome, a chromosome fragment, an artificial chromosome, a yeast artificial chromosome, a bacterial artificial chromosome, a cosmid, or a combination.

[0370] The nucleic acid sample is or is derived from a blood sample, a urine sample, a semen sample, a lymphatic fluid sample, a cerebrospinal fluid sample, amniotic fluid sample, a biopsy sample, a needle aspiration biopsy sample, a cancer sample, a tumor sample, a tissue sample, a cell sample, a cell lysate sample, a crude cell lysate sample, a forensic sample, an archeological sample, an infection sample, a nosocomial infection sample, a production sample, a drug preparation sample, a biological molecule production sample, a protein preparation sample, a lipid preparation sample, a carbohydrate preparation sample, or a combination thereof. The nucleic acid sample is or is derived from a eukaryote, a plant, and animal, a marine animal, a vertebrate, a mammal, or a human.

[0371] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁹ nucleotides, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 0.01% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0372] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0373] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 0.1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0374] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0375] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁷ nucleotides, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 1% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0376] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 5% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0377] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁶ nucleotides, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 10% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0378] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 20% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 30% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 40% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 50% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 60% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 70% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0379] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁵ nucleotides, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0380] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of at least 90% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 95% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 96% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 97% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, at least 98% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample, or at least 99% of the nucleic acid sequences in the genomic nucleic acid sample.

[0381] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 5 different loci. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in a locus representation of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% for at least 5 different loci.

[0382] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in a locus representation of at least 10% for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci.

[0383] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 50-fold. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 45-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 25-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 19-fold, less than 18-fold, less than 17-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 15-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 13-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 5-fold, or less than 4-fold.

[0384] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different loci, for at least 6 different loci, at least 7 different loci, at least 8 different loci, at least 9 different loci, at least 10 different loci, at least 11 different loci, at least 12 different loci, at least 13 different loci, at least 14 different loci, at least 15 different loci, at least 16 different loci, at least 17 different loci, at least 18 different loci, at least 19 different loci, at least 20 different loci, at least 25 different loci, at least 30 different loci, at least 40 different loci, at least 50 different loci, at least 75 different loci, or at least 100 different loci.

[0385] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying nucleic acid samples of high sequence complexity, the method comprising, bringing into contact a single primer, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein the primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110³ nucleotides, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 5 different target sequences.

[0386] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in a sequence representation of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% for at least 5 different target sequences.

[0387] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0388] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 50-fold. Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 45-fold, less than 40-fold, less than 35-fold, less than 30-fold, less than 25-fold, less than 20-fold, less than 19-fold, less than 18-fold, less than 17-fold, less than 16-fold, less than 15-fold, less than 14-fold, less than 13-fold, less than 12-fold, less than 11-fold, less than 10-fold, less than 9-fold, less than 8-fold, less than 7-fold, less than 6-fold, less than 5-fold, or less than 4-fold.

[0389] Replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in an amplification bias of less than 50-fold for at least 5 different target sequences, for at least 6 different target sequences, at least 7 different target sequences, at least 8 different target sequences, at least 9 different target sequences, at least 10 different target sequences, at least 11 different target sequences, at least 12 different target sequences, at least 13 different target sequences, at least 14 different target sequences, at least 15 different target sequences, at least 16 different target sequences, at least 17 different target sequences, at least 18 different target sequences, at least 19 different target sequences, at least 20 different target sequences, at least 25 different target sequences, at least 30 different target sequences, at least 40 different target sequences, at least 50 different target sequences, at least 75 different target sequences, or at least 100 different target sequences.

[0390] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce replication of at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0391] The set of primers further can comprise at least one additional primer. The set of primers can further comprise at least one non-selected primer, wherein the non-selected primer produces replication of less than 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample.

[0392] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce an amplification bias of less than 20-fold for at least 10 nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0393] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying genomes, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a genomic nucleic acid sample, and incubating the genomic nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein the genomic nucleic acid sample comprises all or a substantial portion of a genome, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the genomic nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 10 nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0394] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying nucleic acids, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce replication of at least 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0395] The set of primers can further comprise at least one additional primer. The set of primers can further comprise at least one non-selected primer, wherein the non-selected primer produces replication of less than 80% of the nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample. The nucleic acid sample can have a sequence complexity of at least 110³ nucleotides.

[0396] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying nucleic acids, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce an amplification bias of less than 20-fold for at least 10 nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0397] Also disclosed is a method of amplifying nucleic acids, the method comprising, bringing into contact a set of primers, DNA polymerase, and a nucleic acid sample, and incubating the nucleic acid sample under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein the set of primers comprises one or more selected primers, wherein each selected primer has a specific nucleotide sequence, wherein replication of nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample proceeds by strand displacement replication, wherein replication of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample results in replication of all or a substantial fraction of the nucleic acid molecules in the nucleic acid sample, wherein each selected primer in the set can produce a sequence representation of at least 10% for at least 10 nucleic acid sequences in a selection nucleic acid sample when the primer, DNA polymerase, and the selection nucleic acid sample are brought into contact and incubated under conditions that promote replication of nucleic acid molecules in the selection nucleic acid sample, wherein the selection nucleic acid sample has a sequence complexity of at least 110⁸ nucleotides.

[0398] This example describes a demonstration of several embodiments of the disclosed method and analysis and comparison of the results. The exemplified method is the disclosed multiple displacement amplification form of whole genome amplification using hexamer (six nucleotide) primers having specific sequences. Different primers, and different number of primers, were used in the various reactions. All of these examples use only one or a few primers of specific nucleotide sequence to efficiently amplify the whole human genome.

[0399] 1. Amplification of Human Genomic DNA by Multiple Displacement Amplification (MDA)

[0400] In an example of an embodiment of the disclosed method, 100 l reactions (in triplicates), assembled in 0.2 ml tubes, contained 10 ng human genomic DNA, 37 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.5, 50 mM KCl, 10 mM MgCl₂, 5 mM (NH₄)₂SO₄, 1.0 mM dATP, dTTP, dCTP, and dGTP, 50 M exonuclease resistant hexamer, and 800 units/ml Phi 29 DNA polymerase. Reactions were incubated for 16 hours at 30 C. and terminated by heating to 65 C. for 3 min. MDA reaction yield was determined via PicoGreen quantification using a lambda DNA standard curve (Molecular Probes, Eugene, Oreg.).

[0401] 2. Quantitative PCR Analysis of Amplification Products

[0402] The quality of the amplified DNA was assessed using TaqMan analysis. TaqMan analysis was performed using both ABI 7700 and 7000 sequence detection systems according to the manufacturer's specifications (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, Calif.). The TaqMan reaction consists of 50 l of 1 Platinum Taq Polymerase Buffer, 5 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM of each dNTPs, 1 l of ROX Reference Dye (Invitrogen Life Technologies, Carlsbad, Calif.), 1 Unit of Platinum Taq Polymerase (Invitrogen Life Technologies, Carlsbad, Calif.), 0.3 M each of forward and reverse PCR primers, 0.25 M of FAM/TAMRA fluorescent/quencher probe, and 1 g of MDA amplified DNA. Purified human genomic DNA (gDNA) (Promega, Madison, Wis.) was used to generate a standard curve of 0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, and 1 g gDNA to quantify the MDA amplified DNA. Loci representation (MDA/gDNA) is reported as a percent and is derived as 100 (loci copy number/g MDA product)/(loci copy number/g gDNA). A value of 100% indicates that the loci copy number for the amplified DNA is equal to the loci copy number for the unamplified genomic DNA.

[0403] 3. Single Primer

[0404] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above. A single six nucleotide Alu-specific primer (that is, its sequence was derived from an Alu repeat sequence), AluR11 (AGCGAG), was used for the MDA reaction. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 1, AluR11 efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0405] 4. Two Primers

[0406] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using two specific primers. The two primer sequences were AGTGGG and AGAGAG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 2, the two six nucleotide primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0407] 5. Three Primers

[0408] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using three specific primers. The primers were six nucleotide non-Alu primers (that is, their sequence was not derived from an Alu repeat sequence) having the sequences AGCCGG, AGTAGG, and AGTTGG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 3, the three primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0409] 6. Four Primers

[0410] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using four specific primers. The primers were six nucleotide primers having the sequences AGGCGG, AGTGGG, AGGGAG, and AGTGAG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 4, the four primer efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0411] 7. Five Primers

[0412] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using five specific primers. In a first example, the primers were six nucleotide primers having the sequences AGTGGG, AGCCAG, AGTTAG, AGTCAG, and AGACAG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 5, these five primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0413] In a second example, the primers were six nucleotide primers having the sequences AGAGGG, AGGCAG, AGCCAG, AGTCAG, and AGACAG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 6, these five primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0414] In a third example, the primers were six nucleotide primers having the sequences AGTAGG, AGGTGG, AGGCAG, AGACAG, and AGTGAG. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 7, these five primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0415] In a fourth example, the primers were six nucleotide primers having the sequences AGCGAG, AGGAGG, AGAGGG, AGGGAG, and AGTGAG. One of the primers (AGCGAG) was specific for an Alu sequence. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 8, these five primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

[0416] 8. Nine Primers

[0417] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using nine specific primers. The primers were six nucleotide Alu-specific primers, referred to as AluR9H. The name and sequence of all nine Alu-specific primers are shown in Table 1. The asterisks represent phosphothiolate linakges. A total of 10 genetic loci were analyzed. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the nine primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

TABLE 1
AluR9H mixture of 9 Alu-specific primers
	AluR1	5 CGG T*G*G 3
	AluR3	5 CGA G*G*C 3
	AluR4	5 GCG T*G*G 3
	AluR6	5 AAT C*G*C 3
	AluR8	5 CCG A*G*A 3
	AluR9	5 GAT C*G*C 3
	AluR10	5 AGA G*C*G 3
	AluR11	5 AGC G*A*G 3
	AluR12	5 ACT C*C*G 3

[0418] 9. Twelve Primers

[0419] Human genomic DNA was amplified by Multiple Displacement Amplification followed by TaqMan loci analysis as described above using twelve specific primers. The primers were six nucleotide Alu-specific primers, referred to as AluR12H. The name and sequence of all twelve Alu-specific primers are shown in Table 2. The asterisks represent phosphothiolate linakges. A total of 47 genetic loci were analyzed (2 loci per chromosome, and one locus from the Y chromosome). As illustrated in FIG. 10, the twelve primers efficiently amplified the whole human genome as indicated by locus representation.

TABLE 2
AluR12H mixture of 12 Alu-specific primers
	AluR1	5 CGG T*G*G 3
	AluR2	5 TCA C*G*C 3
	AluR3	5 CGA G*G*C 3
	AluR4	5 GCG T*G*G 3
	AluR5	5 ACT C*G*G 3
	AluR6	5 AAT C*G*C 3
	AluR7	5 CGG A*G*G 3
	AluR8	5 CCG A*G*A 3
	AluR9	5 GAT C*G*C 3
	AluR10	5 AGA G*C*G 3
	AluR11	5 AGC G*A*G 3
	AluR12	5 ACT C*C*G 3

[0420] It is understood that the disclosed method and compositions are not limited to the particular methodology, protocols, and reagents described as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention which will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0421] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a primer includes a plurality of such primers, reference to the primer is a reference to one or more primers and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0422] Optional or optionally means that the subsequently described event, circumstance, or material may or may not occur or be present, and that the description includes instances where the event, circumstance, or material occurs or is present and instances where it does not occur or is not present.

[0423] Ranges may be expressed herein as from about one particular value, and/or to about another particular value. When such a range is expressed, also specifically contemplated and considered disclosed is the range from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent about, it will be understood that the particular value forms another, specifically contemplated embodiment that should be considered disclosed unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. Finally, it should be understood that all of the individual values and sub-ranges of values contained within an explicitly disclosed range are also specifically contemplated and should be considered disclosed unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. The foregoing applies regardless of whether in particular cases some or all of these embodiments are explicitly disclosed.

[0424] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which the disclosed method and compositions belong. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present method and compositions, the particularly useful methods, devices, and materials are as described. Publications cited herein and the material for which they are cited are specifically incorporated by reference. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

[0425] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the method and compositions described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.