LGC eBook - 2017 - 7

Accelerating Science Using Integrated PCR Tools * Advances in PCR Technology and Its Applications in Healthcare

differently than could be done on a
traditional PCR instrument, but doing it
more efficiently, by integrating the function
of multiple instruments into one automated
system," explained Luke Linz, Ph.D.,
Laboratory Operations Manager,
LGC Douglas Scientific.
In contrast to LGC Douglas Scientific's legacy
system, which uses three separate instruments
to perform liquid handling (Nexar®), thermal
cycling (Soellex®), and detection (Araya®) for
end-point PCR assays [For research use only.
Not for clinical diagnostic use.], the IntelliQube
can perform all of these steps on a single
instrument, which enables high-throughput
real-time PCR. Like their legacy system, the
IntelliQube utilizes a consumable Array Tape®
in lieu of standard PCR microplates; the Array
Tape designed for the IntelliQube® is a continuous
polymer strip and has 768 wells per array
and reaction volumes of 1.6 µL.

| GENengnews.com

The miniaturized reaction volumes used by
the Array Tape greatly reduce reagent costs,
formerly a major barrier to the economic
feasibility of genotyping assays according to
Higgins, but, despite this clear advantage, it took
some convincing for potential customers to
accept the technology. "One of the biggest
challenges in getting our technology adopted
in the research market was overcoming the
uniqueness of the Array Tape, and probably the
most challenging thing, initially, was getting
customers to understand that they could still
achieve high quality data at that reaction
volume," Dr. Linz commented.
High-throughput PCR instruments increase
throughput and consistency, while decreasing
labor and reagent costs. "For pharmacogenomics
companies like OneOme-a CLIA/CAP-accredited
laboratory-they can use our products in a research
use only environment to support the development
of their downstream tests that include assays that

cover more genetic variations in the population
that affect drug metabolism," Dr. Linz added.
In the future, it would be wonderful if your
physician could tailor your prescription
medications to fit your personal genomics-to
ensure that you receive the greatest benefit with
the least side effects. It would be fantastic if,
when you went for your annual exam, they could
test for early-stage cancer as easily as they test
for high cholesterol. "That a person's life is made
better and longer-that is the best thing on the
earth that we can do," Dr. Kramer commented on
his lab's work, "that's why we do it." However, breaking down the scientific, economic, and educational barriers along the long road from bench to
bedside often takes innovation, persistence,
and time. n
* LGC, LGC Douglas Scientific, and LGC Biosearch
Technologies products are for Research Use Only.
Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

http://www.GENengnews.com

LGC eBook - 2017

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of LGC eBook - 2017