Technology
Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR)
Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology represents the next generation of quantitative PCR. By partitioning samples into thousands of nano-droplets, it enables absolute, highly precise quantification of target nucleic acids without the need for standard curves. This approach delivers superior sensitivity and significantly higher tolerance to PCR inhibitors compared to traditional qPCR.
Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Absolute Quantification of Viral/Bacterial Load | Precise determination of genomic copy numbers in pathogens, even at ultra-low concentrations, ideal for therapeutic monitoring. |
| Oncology and Liquid Biopsy | Detection and quantification of rare mutations (e.g., fractional abundance <0.1%), copy number variations (CNVs), and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). |
| Biomarker Validation | Absolute quantification of specific genetic targets for clinical trials and translational research. |
| Advanced Gene Expression Analysis | Detection of minute fold-changes in mRNA/RNA expression levels that are difficult to resolve using conventional methods. |
| Quality Control in Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) | Monitoring transduction efficiency and determining viral vector titers for advanced therapeutic medicinal products. |
| Advanced Multiplex Assays | Simultaneous detection of up to four different targets or mutations in a single reaction, maximizing data output per sample. |
Key Features
- High-Precision Absolute Quantification: Direct measurement of target copy numbers per microliter, eliminating the reliance on external standards or calibration curves.
- Exceptional Sensitivity and Reproducibility: Capable of discriminating fold-changes as low as 1.2x and detecting rare targets buried within an abundant wild-type DNA background.
- Fully Automated Walk-Away Workflow: Utilizing the advanced Bio-Rad QXONE system, the entire workflow—droplet generation, thermal cycling, and droplet reading—is fully integrated into a single automated instrument, minimizing hands-on time and user error.
- Multi-Technology Analytical Flexibility: Alongside state-of-the-art ddPCR, our facility is equipped with the Analytik Jena qTOWER³ Real-Time PCR (qPCR) system, covering all standard screening, validation, and retrotranscription needs.