Custom Microbial DNA qPCR Arrays

Real-time PCR-based profiling and detection of microbial species, antibiotic resistance genes, and virulence factor genes in molecular biology applications is supported by the QIAGEN Custom Microbial DNA qPCR Arrays. Each array is composed of Microbial DNA qPCR Assays that have been bench-verified for sensitivity and specificity, pre-dispensed and dried in 96-well, 384-well, or Rotor-Disc 100 plate formats to suit different throughput needs and real-time cyclers.

Two main workflows are supported. For profiling, the arrays generate a profile of microbial species at a particular body site, enabling comparison across populations, over time, or in response to treatments, and supporting the discovery of microbial biomarkers. For identification, the arrays screen for disease-causing microbes or antibiotic resistance genes, working with sample types such as isolated bacterial colonies, blood culture, swabs, stool, and other metagenomic samples. Data analysis software returns a positive, negative, or inconclusive call for each assay, with an inconclusive-results protocol available for follow-up verification.

Assays rely on PCR amplification of species-specific genetic regions and detection with target-specific fluorescent hydrolysis probes. Bacterial-species assays target the 16S rRNA gene. The Microbial qPCR Mastermix is available with either ROX or fluorescein passive reference dye, and the arrays are compatible with real-time cyclers from Applied Biosystems, Bio-Rad, Eppendorf, Agilent, Roche, and QIAGEN. Arrays are shipped at ambient temperature or on blue ice packs and should be stored at −30 to −15 °C upon receipt, under which conditions they remain stable for six months. The products are intended for molecular biology applications and are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of disease.