微生物および生化学技術ジャーナル

概要

DNA Detection Technology Using Zinc Finger Protein

Takenori Kumagai, Koichi Abe, Wataru Yoshida and Kuzunori Ikebukuro

With recent advances in nanotechnology and sequencing technology, DNA diagnostic technology is becoming practical and is advancing at a fast pace. In these detection systems, mainly PCR (particularly real-time PCR) and DNA probe hybridization techniques are used. We suggest that detecting PCR products using double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) is more convenient and powerful compared with DNA probe hybridization technique. Zinc finger protein is the major DNA binding protein in nature and it recognizes dsDNA with sequence specific manner. Additionally, by changing its amino acids sequence, we can design it to recognize the desired DNA sequence to some extent. Using zinc finger protein for DNA detection element, simple, accurate and sensitive DNA detection can be achieved. In this review, dsDNA detection using zinc finger protein is described and compared with recent advanced technology.