Heliscreener(TM) RNA Helicase Unwinding Assay

The Heliscreener RNA Unwinding Assay is a biochemical assay designed to measure the RNA unwinding activity of RNA helicases in the DExH/D-box family. The assay utilizes a labeled double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) substrate that is quenched when intact and emits far-red fluorescence following unwinding. The assay can be performed in kinetic (continuous monitoring) or endpoint mode. Kinetic mode is recommended for initial velocity measurements, allowing for accurate enzyme kinetics and inhibitor IC50 determinations. Alternatively, for screening, the enzyme reaction can be stopped by adding the Stop & Detect Buffer B, and the quenched reactions can be read in endpoint mode.