Tech Challenge

Tech Challenge

PCR Optimization in Environmental Samples

A start-up biofuels company is outfitting a high throughput lab. One of its major projects is going to be PCR optimization for genetic identification of any novel organisms discovered through environmental sample cultures. To this end, the director of high throughput needs to perform as many PCR tests as possible in the shortest amount of time and with the greatest temperature accuracy. In addition, the director would like to be able to save as many programs as possible in case the samples yield numerous organisms, so he needs a USB connection for PC communication. When researching thermal cyclers, the director found several options.

Which of the following would be ideal for this application?

A. Techne TC-5000 gradient thermal cycler for 384-well plates

B. Labnet MultiGene gradient thermal cycler for 96-well plates

C. Techne Prime G large-format gradient thermal cycler for 384-well plates

D. Techne TC-4000 thermal cycler for 384-well plates

Answers:

A. Techne TC-5000 gradient thermal cycler for 384-well plates

Incorrect. This thermal cycler has a temperature accuracy of ±0.3°C, its heating rate is 3.0°C/sec, only 50 programs can be stored, and it does not have a USB connection.

B. Labnet MultiGene gradient thermal cycler for 96-well plates

Incorrect. Although this thermal cycler has 99 programs and USB connection, its temperature accuracy is ±0.5°C and its heating rate is 3.0°C/sec. Plus the 96-well plate capacity is not considered high throughput.

C. Techne Prime G large-format gradient thermal cycler for 384-well plates

Correct. This thermal cycler has a temperature accuracy of ±0.2°C, a fast heating rate of 3.4°C/sec, and can store 1000 programs in memory plus unlimited storage via USB connection.

D. Techne TC-4000 thermal cycler for 384-well plates

Incorrect. This thermal cycler does not have a gradient function, which is essential for fast PCR optimization.