Epigenetic biomarker and uses therefor
AssigneeThe University of Queensland
InventorsAbu SINA, Matt TRAU, Laura GARCIA CARRASCOSA
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Abstract
Disclosed is an epigenetic biomarker that comprises clustered methylated genomic DNA which can self-assemble to form complexes that have distinct physicochemical properties relative to genomic DNA that lacks such clusters. Also disclosed are methods, systems, compositions and kits that takes advantage of these physicochemical properties for detecting clustered methylated genomic DNA including for determining likelihood of the presence of cancer.
Claims23
An isolated nucleic acid complex comprising genomic DNA comprising a plurality of genomic DNA molecules individual ones of which comprise a clustered distribution of methylated nucleotides, wherein the complex is formed by self-assembly of the DNA molecules under aqueous conditions.
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A system comprising:
- a biological sample comprising a nucleic acid complex comprising genomic DNA comprising a plurality of genomic DNA molecules individual ones of which comprise a clustered distribution of methylated nucleotides, wherein the complex is formed by self-assembly of the DNA molecules under aqueous conditions;
- and
- a sensor, which is in communication with the biological sample, for detecting the presence or level of the nucleic acid complex.
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A method for detecting and measuring cancer DNA, the method comprising:
- exposing a biological sample comprising cancer DNA to a working electrode that comprises an electro-conductive material;
- applying a potential to the working electrode;
- and detecting an electrical signal from the working electrode that is indicative of adsorption of cancer DNA to the electroconductive material, wherein the electrical signal is different to an electrical signal generated from the working electrode when a corresponding normal DNA or a lesser amount of cancer DNA is adsorbed to the electroconductive material.
(canceled)
93-95. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.