High Throughput Real-Time PCR (qPCR) for AAC Genomics Core Lab

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The major users of the Advanced Analysis Centre (AAC) Genomics Facility, which offers core molecular biology technology support services and training to the entire UofG campus, are requesting funding for a QuantStudio 7 Pro real-time PCR system to replace existing but rapidly ageing real-time PCR infrastructure. Upgrading to state-of-the-art real-time PCR instrumentation in the Genomics Facility has become critical. Real-time PCR, which quantitatively detects increases in a PCR amplicon's copy number is a mainstay of modern molecular biology methods and supports a wide range of applications including functional genomics and gene expression, SNP detection, and species detection. It goes without saying that access to contemporary real-time PCR instrumentation is crucial to the continued success of a large number of research programs at UofG, from basic research in biodiversity science and human biology to applied advances in pest control and animal health and breeding. The existing StepOnePlus system in the Genomics Facility was purchased in 2004 and has been heavily utilized by the applicants and the facility's 100+ unique PIs and their 200+ students. The SetpOnePlus is approaching the end of its useful life. Users are experiencing frequent bottlenecks due to recurring downtime for repairs/maintenance due to instrument age. Critically, it also has limited flexibility in use that is impacting the competitiveness of research programs (e.g., limited to only a 96-well plate format). Because the instrument is increasingly down for repairs, it is highly oversubscribed when it is functional. The requested QuantStudio 7 Pro system offers maximum flexibility through an interchangeable thermal block system allowing for the use of 384-well plates and for the use of TaqMan Array microfluidics Cards (TAC). The system also allows for up to 6-dye multiplexing capability, which is the deepest on the market. The Orbitor RS2 microplate mover upgrade in addition to the QuantStudio's online run monitoring and data access will allow for 24/7 operation easing usage bottlenecks while simplifying user profile management. Setting up a high-end automated system like this in a core facility will help address the growing problem of sequestering and subsequent duplication of instrumentation at UofG while simultaneously supporting the research of the applicants and hundreds of other UofG researchers. The three core lab staff in the Genomics Facility provide real-time PCR training to users which consists of an introduction to real-time PCR, an explanation of lab workflows and relevant protocols, hands-on training on the operation of the QuantStudio and data analysis and interpretation.