Multiplexed RNA analysis has found its place in cancer research, cardiac disease studies, neurobiology investigations, and more. This versatile tool can be used to analyze a plethora of biological and clinical samples, from tissue homogenates to serum, plasma, and even formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens. The potential applications are vast, covering gene expression studies, signaling pathways, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and transcription factors, among others.
Keep reading to learn more about this analysis method and its top benefits for your studies.
How Does QuantiGene-xMAP Work?
QuantiGene-xMAP, an innovative technology, harnesses the power of branched DNA (bDNA) and xMAP Luminex beads to offer a comprehensive solution for multiplexed gene expression quantitation. Unlike conventional methods that rely on target amplification, QuantiGene-xMAP employs signal amplification. This eliminates the need for RNA purification and ensures precise measurements.
Here’s a simplified overview of how the QuantiGene-xMAP assay works:
Step 1: Sample Preparation
The process begins with lysing the sample to release and stabilize RNA. QuantiGene-xMAP is highly flexible and can handle a variety of samples, from cultured cells to whole blood and FFPE tissues.
Step 2: Target Hybridization
The RNA targets are allowed to hybridize overnight with target-specific probe sets and Luminex capture beads, setting the stage for precise quantification.
Step 3: Signal Amplification
This is where the magic happens. The assay utilizes branched DNA technology, where Pre-Amplifier molecules hybridize to Label Extenders, followed by the binding of multiple Amplifier molecules to each Pre-Amplifier. Lastly, multiple biotinylated Label Probe oligonucleotides hybridize to each Amplifier, resulting in a significant signal amplification.
Step 4: Detection
The cherry on top is the addition of streptavidin phycoerythrin (SAPE), which generates a signal proportional to the amount of target RNA in the sample. This signal is read using a Luminex instrument for accurate analysis.
Why Choose QuantiGene-xMAP?
Now, you might be wondering why you should opt for QuantiGene-xMAP over other methods. Here are some compelling reasons:
Accurate and Precise RNA Quantitation
QuantiGene-xMAP excels in providing accurate and precise RNA quantitation. It allows the measurement of up to 80 genes of interest in a single well, making it a high-throughput solution that saves time and resources.
No RNA Purification Required
One of the standout features of QuantiGene-xMAP is its ability to work with various sample types without the need for RNA purification. This simplifies the workflow and minimizes the risk of sample degradation.
Multiplexing Capabilities
With QuantiGene-xMAP, you can multiplex up to 100 bioassays per well, including controls. This parallel analysis enables the simultaneous quantitation of multiple RNAs in the same sample, significantly enhancing efficiency.
Reproducibility and Accuracy
QuantiGene-xMAP consistently delivers reproducible results and ensures easy quality control. It offers quantitative results over a dynamic range, with strong concordance to microarrays and real-time PCR, two widely used techniques in molecular biology.
Customization and Versatility
QuantiGene-xMAP boasts a large inventory of validated genes, allowing researchers to select from over 22,000 genes to create customized panels tailored to their specific research needs.
At ITSI-Biosciences, we utilize the Panomics QuantiGene Plex Branched-DNA and Luminex xMAP technologies (QuantiGene-xMAP) to offer multiplexed RNA analysis. Contact us today!