Target-protected dumbbell molecular probe mediated cascade rolling circle amplification strategy for the sensitive assay of DNA methyltransferase activity

Abstract

A novel fluorescence detection system was developed for DNA methyltransferase (MTase) activity assay based on a target-protected dumbbell molecular probe mediated cascade rolling circle amplification. It showed excellent specificity and sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.0024 U mL⁻¹, and potential application in quantitatively monitoring MTase activity and screening of anticancer drugs.