Problem: Although PCR is a staple of the molecular biology laboratory, protocols are often employed
without proper optimization, leading to less than ideal reaction conditions and compromised data.

Problem: PCR is used to detect or quantify nucleic acid sequences in research and diagnostic settings. While high specificity is often achieved, experimental design sometimes necessitates that primers be placed in suboptimal locations. This can lead to problems like the formation of primer dimers or off-target amplification of homologous sequences. The formation of primer dimers consumes primers and other reaction components, which can result in reduced target amplification. These structures can also generate false positive signals in real-time PCR assays that use DNA intercalating dyes to monitor amplification. Off-target amplification is particularly problematic with low copy-number targets because of the high number of cycles required for amplification and in multiplex assays, where many different primers must function well together.

Support for researchers performing mutation detection and genome editing.

Integrated DNA Technologies fuses fruit flies, football and fun in a unique global contest with great prizes.

In order to address the need for a quick and easy-to-use method of oligo optimization, Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) offers the SciTools suite of free, online oligo analysis and design tools.

IDT has recently developed its PrimeTime qPCR assay portfolio. This complete range of assay scales enables more affordable gene studies which better reflect the needs of the customer.