Digital PCR (dPCR) is a highly precise approach, allowing for sensitive and reproducible detection and quantification of nucleic acids. Measurements are made by dividing the sample into fractions so that there are either none, one, or multiple target molecules present in each individual reaction. Each fraction is analyzed after an endpoint PCR cycle to determine the presence (positive reaction) or absence (negative reaction) of a fluorescence signal. The absolute number of molecules present in the sample is then calculated. 

Advantages of dPCR over qPCR: 

  • Target quantification in dPCR does not require a standard curve, reducing errors and improving accuracy. 
  • Digital PCR exhibits high tolerance to PCR inhibitors, thus being less affected by variations in PCR efficiency attributed to sample partitioning and endpoint cycling. 
  • The service is complete: specific primer design and dPCR. 

The absolute quantification service by digital PCR (dPCR) (QIAcuity One, Qiagen) offers analyses using EVAGreen, TaqMan, or multiplexing technologies: 

  1. Absolute quantification in copy number 
  2. Mouse genotyping 
  3.  Detection of microbial or viral pathogens 
  4.  Copy Number Variation (CNV) 
  5.  Detection of rare mutation 
  6.  AAV virus titration