Oligonucleotide Probes

**Definition:** Synthetic or natural oligonucleotides used in hybridization studies in order to identify and study specific nucleic acid fragments, e.g., DNA segments near or within a specific gene locus or gene. The probe hybridizes with a specific mRNA, if present. Conventional techniques used for testing for the hybridization product include dot blot assays, Southern blot assays, and DNA:RNA hybrid-specific antibody tests. Conventional labels for the probe include the radioisotope labels 32P and 125I and the chemical label biotin.

**Tree numbers:** - D13.444.600.601 - D27.505.259.750.600.650 - D27.720.470.530.600.650

**Synonyms:** - Oligonucleotide Probe