From now on, we are not afraid to choose PCR laboratory supplies

PCR is a sensitive and effective method for amplifying a single copy of a target DNA sequence to millions of copies in a short period of time. Therefore, plastic consumables used for polymerase chain reactions must be free of pollutants and inhibitors, but the quality must be high to ensure the best results of polymerase chain reactions. As a user, it is very important to know the characteristics and terminology related to PCR/QCPR consumables. Today, we will give you a full article of information, so that you can choose the most suitable consumables and get accurate and reliable experimental data.

PCR/qPCR consumables are usually made of polypropylene because it is inert and can withstand rapid temperature changes during the thermal cycle. The inertia of polypropylene minimizes the absorption of active substances and ensures the best results of polymerase chain reaction. In order to further ensure batch-to-batch consistency in purity and biocompatibility, new and non-recyclable medical or molecular biology grade polypropylene should be used in the manufacturing process. Please note that the edges of some PCR/quantitative PCR boards are made with stronger polycarbonate frames to be compatible with high-throughput robot applications.

Polymerase chain reaction tubes and plates are usually provided in various colors to promote visual identification and identification of samples, especially in high-throughput experiments. Although the color of the consumables has no effect on DNA amplification, we recommend using white consumables instead of transparent consumables to realize sensitive and accurate fluorescence detection when setting up real-time PCR or qPCR reactions.

Please note that ultra-clear tube caps or optical sealing films should be used to seal qPCR tubes and reaction plates to improve sensitivity and reduce variability because they are specially designed to allow fluorescence signals to pass through without interference from signals. In order to avoid contamination that can interfere with DNA amplification, PCR/qPCR plastic consumables should be free of nuclease and DNA contamination. Although sterilization methods such as autoclaving and irradiation can remove bacteria and deoxyribonuclease, these methods can not remove dust and DNA residues. 

Residual dust clients may inhibit PCR, while fragmented DNA can still be used as a template resulting in non-specific amplification. Therefore, the production of these plastic consumables, from mold manufacturing to final packaging, must be carried out in a facility environment with a limited number of particles. For example, a class 100,000 cleanroom can allow no more than 100,000 particles with a diameter of ≥ 0.5 microns in one cubic foot of air. 

These types of facilities comply with the strict standards formulated by the International Organization for Standardization to prevent dust and biological pollution. Electronic tube FormatsThe reaction tube is the first choice for low and medium-flux PCR/quantitative PCR experiments. Single pipe and double pipe are the two most common forms. A single tube provides the flexibility to set the exact number of reaction runs. Alternatively, for larger reaction volumes, a single tube with the size of 0.5 ml can be used. Couples usually have 8 tubes or 12 tubes with separate hats or hats. Compatible with single and multi-channel pipettes, suitable for low and medium flux experiments. 

The connector with cover can be used to independently open and close the sample tube to prevent sample contamination. For efficient polymerase chain reaction, some polymerase chain reaction instruments have strong heat cap pressure, so special trays/supports may be needed to prevent the test tubes and couplers from being crushed. The skirt of PCR/qPCR plates provides better stability for the pipetting process during reaction system construction, as well as better mechanical strength when performing automated mechanical handling. 

Polymerase chain reaction/quantitative polymerase chain reaction plates can be divided into no skirt plate, overskirt plate, and full skirt plate.No skirt, no apron. This type of reaction plate is suitable for most polymerase chain reaction machines and real-time polymerase chain reaction machine modules, but it is not suitable for automation applications. Semi-skirted plates have a short edge around the edge of the plate, providing adequate support during pipetting and mechanical strength for robotic handling. 

The edge panels of the full skirt polymerase chain reaction/quantitative polymerase chain reaction plate cover the height of the plate. This type of board is suitable for polymerase chain reaction instruments with protruding modules and allows safe and reliable installation. The full skirt also enhances mechanical strength, making it ideal for use with robotic platforms in automated workflows.