Oligonucleotide Synthesis

The Shared Resource uses technology that has enabled us to significantly reduce the costs of producing oligonucleotides. This is based in part on the fact that most investigators do not need large amounts of DNA oligonucleotides but instead need smaller amounts of individual oligonucleotides in greater numbers. Our MerMade automated DNA synthesizer in combination with the Hydra-96 Microdispenser provides a system for producing large numbers of oligonucleotides (up to 288 per day) at reduced cost (as low as $.05 - $.15 per base). The reduced cost in oligonucleotide synthesis results from more efficient use of chemicals and the fact that the system is fully automated, which decreases labor costs and in general improves efficiency. The system is used only for small-scale routine syntheses, leaving our new MerMade 12 synthesizer available for large-scale DNA and RNA synthesis projects and for unusual and experimental syntheses. Charges for DNA synthesis are listed in the Table below. There are also charges for different levels of purification (e.g. none, cartridge, PAGE). HPLC purification is provided upon special request. All unusual chemistries are performed for the difference in cost between the reagents and normal synthesis.

April 2008 Price List