We report the analysis and characterization of natural and modified oligonucleotides by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The present technology was highly improved for this class of compounds by using a new matrix, 2,4,6-trihydroxy acetophenone, together with di- and triammonium salts of organic or inorganic acids to suppress peak broa...

The degradation of mRNA plays a central role in the control of protein synthesis. In Escherichia coli, the rnb gene encodes ribonuclease II (RNase II), one of the two main exonucleases involved in mRNA decay. We have constructed strain CMA201, in which the rnb promoter region and the gene were deleted from the chromosome and replaced by a tetr cassette. This is the first rnb absolute deletion m...

Loss of WRN causes the genomic instability progeroid syndrome, Werner syndrome. WRN encodes a multifunctional nuclear protein with 3'-->5' exonuclease and 3'-->5' helicase activities. Linear plasmids with noncompatible ends introduced to Werner syndrome cells underwent extensive deletions at nonhomologous joining ends, particularly at the 3' protruding single-stranded end. This extensive deleti...

The proportion of sheared rat liver DNA recovered from benzoylated DEAE-cellulose in the final stage following stepwise elution with NaCl and caffeine solutions was dependent upon the DNA isolation procedure. An increase in the proportion of DNA containing single stranded regions, consequent upon delay or addition of Mg2+ prior to phenol extraction, suggested nuclease mediated degradation. Admi...