A lock-docking oligo(dT) primer for 5′ and 3′ RACE PCR

We describe a method that can be used to obtain and sequence 3′ and 5′ ends of cDNA transcripts directly from PCR products. The method employs a modified oligo(dT) primer that enables it to "lock-dock" at the junction of gene-specific cDNA sequence and a natural (3′) or appended (5′) poly(A) tail. As a result, discrete, first-round PCR products are obtained that are easily isolated and sequenced directly.