Optimization of proximity-dependent initiation of hybridization chain reaction for improved performance

Abstract

Proximity based detection methods are invaluable tools in the field of molecular biology, increasing selectivity and allowing for analysis of protein interactions. ProxHCR utilizes pairs of antibodies labelled with oligonucleotides to probe for proximal binding and to initiate a hybridization chain reaction (HCR) to generate an amplified detection signal. As HCR is based upon hybridization of DNA hairpins, the performance is dependent on salt concentrations and temperature. Herein we have redesigned the proxHCR system to increase the performance and to reduce dependency on temperature and salt concentrations. The new oligonucleotides provide an increased signal when performed at physiological salt concentrations and in room temperature.