A simple and rapid mix-and-read assay for sensitive detection of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase

We have developed a simple and rapid mix-and-read assay for the sensitive detection of O-6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) activity based on exonuclease III-assisted signal amplification under completely isothermal conditions (37 degrees C). This method is very simple and rapid (60 min) with ultrahigh sensitivity and good specificity, and it can detect MGMT activity at the single-cell level. Moreover, this method can be applied for the screening of MGMT inhibitors and the discrimination of MGMT in different cancer cells.

Automated summary

We have developed a simple and rapid method for the sensitive detection of O-6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) activity. This method has ultrahigh sensitivity and good specificity, and can detect MGMT activity at the single-cell level. It can also be used for screening MGMT inhibitors and discriminating MGMT in different cancer cells.