Posts Tagged ‘PCR’

The Next Revolution In PCR

 :: Posted by American Biotechnologist on 03-11-2014

Clearly digital PCR has come a long way in recent years, thanks in large measure to the development of commercial systems like the QX200. These technology advances seem to indicate a tipping point where a greater number of researchers will soon have access to the technology, which will spur development of new applications that take advantage of the full capabilities of digital PCR and move scientists towards more robust biomarker studies and even single cell analyses.

Could the next revolution in PCR be digital? In an article appearing in Biotechniques, Nathan Blow takes a look at the history of digital PCR and why the methodology might have finally reached a tipping point in development.

Read the article to find out:

  • What makes digital PCR different from traditional PCR
  • A short history of digital PCR
  • Why did it take so long for the technology to catch on with developers and researchers?
  • How does digital PCR compare to real-time-quantitative PCR?

To learn more read Digital PCR: Separating from the Pack.

Key Steps for Fast PCR

 :: Posted by American Biotechnologist on 06-06-2013

PCR Reviews From Around The World

 :: Posted by American Biotechnologist on 05-21-2013

Overcoming PCR Inhibitors in Plant Research

 :: Posted by American Biotechnologist on 01-03-2013

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a common technique used to amplify, or copy, pieces of DNA. Amplified DNA is then used in genetic analyses for everything from medicine to forensics. In plant research, PCR is a vital step in detecting and sequencing genes, and its applications are endless. However, compounds found in plants often inhibit PCR. Researchers at the University of Southern Mississippi discovered that the use of an additive allows PCR to successfully amplify DNA from once problematic plants.

PCR is widely used in plant sciences but is not 100 percent reliable. Many plant researchers encounter roadblocks when implementing PCR. For example, many plant species contain phenolic compounds that deter herbivores. These compounds are often extracted along with plant DNA and can stop PCR from working.

Read more…

Why didn’t I think of that?

 :: Posted by American Biotechnologist on 08-02-2012

It’s the little things in life that frustrate me the most. Like fumbling around with a fine tipped Sharpie trying to label a strip of 0.2ml PCR tubes. Now that’s frustrating. Then there are people that use their brains for finding creative solutions instead of just whining about the problem to their lab mates. Here is one such example. I wish I had thought of that!

What tips do you have for your fellow biotechnologists that can help save them both time and sanity?