In our phase I studies, we isolated a subassembly of a T. thermophilus DNA polymerase III holoenzyme, establishing the existence of a standard eubacterial replicase in extreme thermophiles. The objectives of our proposed phase II studies are to develop methods for obtaining large quantities of the Tth DNA polymerase III holoenzyme and, exploiting the enormous catalytic efficiency and processivity of this enzyme, to develop very long PCR techniques that enable routine amplification of 100 kb or longer sequences. Such an improvement in this important method will enhance basic molecular biology research and genome research by extending the size of the steps taken when walking along the genome. The availability of a suitable enzyme for very long PCR will enhance diagnostic procedures for cancer, pathogens and genetic defects and will greatly extend the technology for positional cloning and physical marker linkage analysis.

Proposed Commercial Applications

The development of a megabase processivity thermophilic replicase should have a dramatic impact on the 100. million dollar/year thermophilic polymerae market.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
5R44GM054482-03
Application #
6019160
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG3-SSS-2 (01))
Project Start
1996-09-30
Project End
2001-08-01
Budget Start
1999-09-01
Budget End
2001-08-01
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Enzyco, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Denver
State
CO
Country
United States
Zip Code
80206