Kits for the multiplexed detection of known, selected nucleotide target sequences
are provided. Detection involves the release of identifying tags as a consequence
of target recognition. The kits include sets of electrophoretic tag probes or e-tag
probes, capture agent and optionally a nuclease. The e-tag probes comprise a detection
region and a mobility-defining region called the mobility modifier, both linked
to a target-binding moiety. In using the kits, the target-binding moiety of the
e-tag probes hybridizes to complementary target sequences followed by nuclease
cleavage of the e-tag probes and release of detectable e-tags or e-tag reporters.
The mixture is exposed to a capture agent which binds uncleaved and/or partially
cleaved e-tag probes, followed by electrophoretic separation. In a multiplexed
assay, different released e-tag reporters may be separated and detected providing
for target identification.