ddPCR

RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) is a fundamental technique for transcriptome profiling, facilitating the detection of gene expression changes across sample groups. Traditional RNA-Seq of complex tissues, however, is not capable of deciphering the unique biological processes that take place within each cell. As such, single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq) has emerged for the analysis of RNA molecules from individual cells, uncovering detailed insights that are unobtainable through bulk RNA-Seq.

In June, Bio-Rad hosted Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) World 2024, the premier digital PCR event bringing together global leaders in science and innovation. ddPCR World features experts showcasing how ddPCR technology has been instrumental in overcoming some of their most complex research and manufacturing challenges. In this article, we are excited to share key insights and cutting-edge research using ddPCR technology that are driving scientific breakthroughs across the globe.

Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) mutations in breast tumors were first identified nearly 30 years ago. Since then, technology has evolved, as has our understanding of the impact these mutations have on tumor cell physiology. Given the dynamic nature of ESR1 mutation acquisition and enrichment, ctDNA samples appear to be the most robust source for analysis. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) enables rapid, highly sensitive, cost-effective analysis of ctDNA, providing a powerful tool for this critical area of cancer research.

A common challenge in scaling up cell and gene therapy production is monitoring for contaminants, such as Mycoplasma. Learn how ddPCR can help in this webinar.

Dive into an in-depth exploration of the molecular methods for gene expression profiling — highlighting the strengths, applications, and uses of quantitative PCR (qPCR), Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) technologies.

Scientists commonly use lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as viral vectors in cell and gene therapy (CGT) production. However, therapies that use these viruses must undergo strict quality control measures, including testing for replication-competent viruses (RCV), to ensure that the treatment is safe. Cell culture-based methods are currently the gold standard for RCV testing, but it can take up to 45 days for results to be returned. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) kits now offer an attractive orthogonal method.

As the third most prevalent cancer worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health burden. Biomarker identification and detection has proven a powerful strategy for improving CRC diagnosis and informing targeted treatment. Microsatellite instability (MSI) is a key biomarker in CRC, and with Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), MSI can be accurately detected using a wider range of sample types.

Methods that are highly accurate and precise provide the right answer, consistently. For digital PCR (dPCR), Poisson statistics dictate that the accuracy and precision of results are dependent on the accuracy and precision of sample partitions. This means that to get reliable dPCR results, you need to know your partition volume accurately and your partition volumes need to be consistent. See how our Droplet Digital PCR technology provides both accuracy and precision.

The therapeutic potential of messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics has an unprecedented ability to target previously undruggable diseases. The poly(A) tail drives the therapeutic efficacy of the mRNA molecule. Using Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology to analyze poly(A) tail length and integrity yields unrivaled sensitivity, enabling developers to ensure high poly(A) tail integrity and, ultimately, functional therapeutic mRNAs.

Lentiviral vectors (LVVs) have become the primary method of gene delivery for cells ex vivo in both academic and clinical applications. Currently, qPCR is the gold standard for functional titering of LVVs, but Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) offers an attractive alternative due to its inherent benefits, such as absolute quantification without the use of a standard curve and enhanced resistance to PCR inhibitors.