Nucleic acid constructs used in molecular biology and gene therapy are becoming increasingly complex, necessitating the development of new gene assembly technologies. The overall goal of phases I and II is the development of an automated gene assembly process. In the proposed phase I work, we will further develop an efficient method for seamless, simultaneous, multiple-fragment auto-assembly of nucleic acid molecules (called Gene Self-Assembly [GENSA]). If successful, phase II work will involve the development of a computerized robotic gene assembly process. Advantages of the approach over traditional methods are precision and efficiency.

Proposed Commercial Applications

Gene self-assembly (GENSA) technology can be used for the rapid, precise construction of multi-component gene constructs and vectors. The technology overcomes most of the serious limitations of present day cloning techniques, helping to lower costs and increase therapeutic benefits. It is intended for use in all biotechnological applications, especially gene therapy.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43GM058361-01
Application #
2716826
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG2-GNM (02))
Program Officer
Mohla, Suresh
Project Start
1998-08-01
Project End
1999-07-31
Budget Start
1998-08-01
Budget End
1999-07-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1998
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Nature Technology Corporation
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Lincoln
State
NE
Country
United States
Zip Code
68521
Xu, G; Solaiman, F; Zink, M A et al. (2000) Fusogenic effects of murine retroviruses and cationic enhancers of transduction. Cancer Gene Ther 7:53-8