Real-time PCR machine

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The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a molecular biology technique used to amplify target regions of DNA. It can also be used to amplify target regions of RNA, if preceded by the reverse transcription of RNA to DNA. PCR allows for the easy detection of even trace amounts of DNA or RNA in a sample. Recently, the addition of dyes and probes that fluoresce only when incorporated into DNA during PCR allows for the real-time quantification of PCR products. This innovation has proven extremely useful, for example, in understanding how cells turn genes on and off according to metabolic needs and in response to environmental stressors by providing a quantitative measure of messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts. Further, melting of the PCR products following the final PCR cycle allows for, by fluorescence, the separation of genotypes and the identification of mutations. These newest applications require a special PCR thermocycler that has optics for fluorescence excitation and emission detection, i.e., a "real-time PCR machine". We are requesting a real-time PCR machine, the Rotor-Gene RG6, to utilize these innovations for our student-oriented research programs in ecotoxicology (Drevnick and Couture), biogeochemistry (Laurion), and wastewater treatment (Brar and Tyagi). The instrument will also be made fully accessible to other researchers at our Center. User fees will cover operation and maintenance costs. INRS-ETE is currently lacking in molecular biology capabilities, and the addition of the real-time PCR machine will be a boon to many student-oriented research programs.