Digital PCR is a highly sensitive and accurate method of quantifying nucleic acid targets. It uses the same chemistry as qPCR, but separates the reaction into thousands of microreactions. After amplification, the total number of microreactions with a fluorescent signal are counted and analyzed, providing an absolute number of template copies in your sample. dPCR is ideal for applications such as copy number variance, environmental pathogen detection, or quantification of rare targets.
If you do not have the time or personnel to run digital PCR experiments yourself, the BioGarage is available to run them for you. Our experienced staff can assist with planning and carrying out digital PCR on our state-of-the-art Absolute Q dPCR system.
Interested in running your own samples? Check out our instrument walk-up services.
Digital PCR assays:
Most projects will require the purchase of a digital PCR assay (primers and probes) for each target. The BioGarage utilizes TaqMan probe-based assays for digital PCR. TaqMan probes are highly specific and are an ideal choice for measuring low expressing targets. One dPCR run can include up to 4 TaqMan assays.
Each assay is billed only once and can be used repeatedly for subsequent dPCR runs for no additional charge. If desired, we can deliver the remaining assay to you upon completion of your experiment. Both predesigned and custom assays are available. Assay price will vary depending on factors such as species, assay volume, and whether your assay is custom designed. Please contact us to get a quote for your project.
Sample Requirements:
RNA or DNA samples should be dropped off to the BioGarage in PCR tubes or a 96-well PCR plate. Please provide 20-30 uL of sample at a minimum concentration of 30 ng/uL. Higher concentrations may be required for quantification of rare targets. We typically recommend starting with a dilution curve to determine the appropriate amount of sample input for each target.
Pricing:
The Absolute Q digital PCR instrument runs in columns of 4 wells, so runs are billed per 4 samples. Any control samples such as no template controls will be added to the sample number.
| Service | UW System rate | Non-UW System rate |
| dPCR assay | starts at $100 | starts at $155 |
| dPCR run (per 4 samples) | $55 | $85.25 |
| RT-dPCR run (per 4 samples) | $75 | $116.25 |