Words by GOLD newsdesk
Roche has launched a powerful digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system that detects cancer and other disease and quantifies trace amounts of specific DNA and RNA targets usually undetectable by conventional methods.
The Digital LightCycler System is the company’s first digital PCR and enables researchers to divide DNA and RNA from clinical samples into as many as 100,000 microscopic individual reactions. From there, the system can perform PCR, producing sophisticated data analysis on the results.
The system provides new opportunities for researchers beyond traditional PCR technology, meaning areas like oncology and infectious disease can benefit from accurately quantifiable levels of DNA or RNA exists at a molecular level.
Digital LightCycler will be made available in 15 countries in 2022, with plans to launch into further fields in the near future.
"Understanding the hidden characteristics of serious diseases is fundamental for ensuring that the most effective treatment is selected for each patient," said Thomas Schinecker, CEO, Roche Diagnostics. “The Digital LightCycler System will support clinical researchers and laboratories in identifying rare and emerging disease mutations. This can be instrumental in early diagnosis and therapy decisions."