Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)

The differences between us are what makes life interesting, and diversity in a group that shares a common goal can lead to many benefits. Here we examine the similarities and differences between researchers using flow cytometry for academic research and those using it for drug discovery. We outline the challenges they face and learn that they share a common goal as well as a common solution.

Characterizing biomarkers in lung cancer tumors is challenging due to the high risks associated with tissue retrieval. Liquid biopsy offers a safer alternative but requires highly sensitive and precise methods to generate robust results from minimal genetic material. In this video, Dr. Schuuring of the University Medical Center Groningen discusses how Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) is used in his laboratories and why this technology has become critical for his research.

In June, Bio-Rad hosted Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) World 2024, the premier digital PCR event bringing together global leaders in science and innovation. ddPCR World features experts showcasing how ddPCR technology has been instrumental in overcoming some of their most complex research and manufacturing challenges. In this article, we are excited to share key insights and cutting-edge research using ddPCR technology that are driving scientific breakthroughs across the globe.

Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) mutations in breast tumors were first identified nearly 30 years ago. Since then, technology has evolved, as has our understanding of the impact these mutations have on tumor cell physiology. Given the dynamic nature of ESR1 mutation acquisition and enrichment, ctDNA samples appear to be the most robust source for analysis. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) enables rapid, highly sensitive, cost-effective analysis of ctDNA, providing a powerful tool for this critical area of cancer research.

A common challenge in scaling up cell and gene therapy production is monitoring for contaminants, such as Mycoplasma. Learn how ddPCR can help in this webinar.

In this webinar, learn about validating qPCR and ddPCR assays in regulated environments. Explore validation parameters and regulatory considerations.

Scientists commonly use lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) as viral vectors in cell and gene therapy (CGT) production. However, therapies that use these viruses must undergo strict quality control measures, including testing for replication-competent viruses (RCV), to ensure that the treatment is safe. Cell culture-based methods are currently the gold standard for RCV testing, but it can take up to 45 days for results to be returned. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) kits now offer an attractive orthogonal method.

As the third most prevalent cancer worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health burden. Biomarker identification and detection has proven a powerful strategy for improving CRC diagnosis and informing targeted treatment. Microsatellite instability (MSI) is a key biomarker in CRC, and with Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), MSI can be accurately detected using a wider range of sample types.

Methods that are highly accurate and precise provide the right answer, consistently. For digital PCR (dPCR), Poisson statistics dictate that the accuracy and precision of results are dependent on the accuracy and precision of sample partitions. This means that to get reliable dPCR results, you need to know your partition volume accurately and your partition volumes need to be consistent. See how our Droplet Digital PCR technology provides both accuracy and precision.

Gain access to high-performance chromatin profiling to unravel the complexities of cellular heterogeneity, differentiation, and disease-specific alterations in gene regulation. With single-cell ATAC-seq (assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing), you can delve into the gene regulatory landscape of individual cells, unlocking invaluable insights into the epigenomic mechanisms that shape their behavior.