Digital PCR: Approaches and Applications for Liquid Biopsies

20 Mar 2016, at 13:30-16:00 in Boston, USA

This Training Course Presents the Technologies and Applications of Digital PCR (dPCR).

Digital PCR allows the absolute quantification of rare genetic mutations, discrimination of low gene copy number and powerful reproducibility with minimal biological sample requirement. The technique is based on direct counts of the molecules present in the samples therefore it is not affected by contaminants and inhibitors, unlike regular quantitative PCR (qPCR). Digital PCR reliably quantifies low copies of molecules recovered from biological samples including, exosomes, circulating cell free DNA, pathogens and single cells. DNA, mRNA and miRNA can be quantified using either TaqMan based probes or double strand dyes.

Currently there are many different digital PCR technologies available in the market, each with their advantages and disadvantages. This course will overview the digital PCR field and provides a framework for implementing digital PCR in research applications.

Specific Topics Covered in this Training Course:

• Novel dPCR technologies and techniques
• Validation of dPCR techniques
• Low level of DNA/cDNA detection
• Application of dPCR to liquid biopsies
• Exosomes, Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and single cell analysis (SCA) using dPCR

Who Should Attend this Training Course:

• Researchers Starting Projects Utilizing Digital PCR and Need a Deep and Thorough Understanding of the Field
• Researchers Focusing on Liquid Biopsies
• Companies in the Life Sciences and Diagnostics Fields Developing Assays and Diagnostics

All Training Course Delegates will Receive Electronic Copies of the Presentation Materials and Reviews as well asProtocols on Digital PCR -- An Excellent Reference Source.