What is the primary substrate used in Pyrosequencing for signal detection?

The primary substrate used in Pyrosequencing for signal detection is deoxynucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs). In the Pyrosequencing process, the sequencing of DNA is facilitated through a series of enzymatic reactions involving dNTPs. When a dNTP is incorporated into the growing DNA strand during polymerization, this event is detected by the release of pyrophosphate (PPi), which subsequently triggers a cascade of reactions that produce light. The intensity of the light emitted corresponds to the nucleotide incorporated, allowing for the determination of the DNA sequence.

In this method, the key component is indeed the dNTPs, as they serve as the building blocks for the synthesis of the new DNA strand. The light produced from the enzymatic reactions is what allows for real-time detection of nucleotide incorporation during sequencing, making dNTPs crucial for the functionality of Pyrosequencing.

Other substances listed, such as luciferin, are not involved in the basic mechanism of Pyrosequencing but are related to bioluminescent assays. Adenosine 5' phosphosulfate (AP5) and uranium nucleotides are not used in this context, as they do not