Bio-Rad Introduces the QX200 Droplet Digital PCR System

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products, today announced the launch of its QX200 Droplet Digital™ PCR (ddPCR) system, the second generation of the company's Droplet Digital™ PCR technology.

The QX200 system is the only digital PCR system that works with EvaGreen and TaqMan hydrolysis probes (reagents that are used with the instrument) to provide users more flexibility in the design of their digital PCR experiments. The new system can be used with the company's recently launched 75 Droplet Digital PCR-validated assays (tests) for cancer mutation detection and genomic variations (gene copy number) to make running an experiment easier. Digital PCR provides researchers a tool for the detection of rare mutations (including distinguishing rare sequences in tumors), precise measurement of copy number variation, and absolute quantification of gene expression.

"Droplet Digital PCR has been widely embraced, demonstrating a level of sensitivity and simplicity not available by any other means," said Brad Crutchfield, Bio-Rad President, Life Science Group. "The launch of the QX200 system and ddPCR validated assays demonstrates Bio-Rad's commitment to innovation and leadership in this exciting technology."

Researchers in institutions worldwide are using the ddPCR system to conduct groundbreaking research on HIV, cancer, and disease characterization, resulting in more than 30 peer-reviewed publications in the less than two years since Bio-Rad brought ddPCR to the market. Using ddPCR, HIV researchers at the University of California, San Diego were able to demonstrate that an infant born with HIV was functionally cured. Other researchers have shown the technology's promise in screening for cancer and diagnosing infectious disease as well as in quantifying genetically modified organisms in food and monitoring water quality.