Beacon Designer software from PREMIER Biosoft International generates optimal primer and probe sequences for real-time quantitative PCR assays. Primer efficiency is enhanced by avoiding template secondary structure identified by connecting to the mfold server. Beacon Designer software can be used to evaluate predesigned primers and to design compatible oligonucleotide probes, extending the assay design. The program displays the location of primers and probes, all possible dimers, cross-dimers, and repeats, all in a graphical format.

Beacon Designer software allows versatility in assay development:

• Multiplex assays — design optimal primer-probe sets for single-tube multiplex assays using Beacon Designer software’s proprietary algorithms
• SYBR Green I assays — specificity is ensured by avoiding cross-homologies identified by automatically interpreting BLAST search results
• Dual-labeled probe assays — comprehensive support is available for designing TaqMan, molecular beacon, and FRET assays for studying differential gene expression or detecting SNPs
• LNA and NASBA assays — LNA probes, which are more stable than standard probes, can be designed; molecular beacon probes can be designed for NASBA assays for single-template or multiplex reactions

For a trial version of the software, or to access tutorials on how to use Beacon Designer software features, please visit www.PremierBiosoft.com.