Qiagen, a prominent international leader in Sample to Insight solutions, has unveiled two groundbreaking tools aimed at crafting and acquiring tailored solutions for microbial examination of bacterial, fungal, and viral entities.
These innovative resources allow scientists to modify their assays and panels for deployment on the QIAcuity digital PCR platform, along with any other next-generation sequencing (NGS) systems. These tools enhance the existing collection of over 700 digital PCR assays for microbial targets available via the [GeneGlobe](https://geneglobe.qiagen.com) platform.
The newly launched products extend the applicability of nanoplate digital PCR (dPCR) to a broader range of microbial targets. Their uses span from wastewater assessment to food safety checks and evaluation of human pathogens. With nanoplate dPCR, researchers can accurately measure infrequent targets in low-biomass samples heavily affected by PCR inhibitors, eliminating the need for a standard curve and achieving high precision.
“Microbial detection, monitoring, and scientific exploration often require specialized approaches,” stated Nitin Sood, Senior Vice President and Head of Qiagen’s Life Sciences Sector. “Providing dependable and precise tools that are customizable grants scientists the adaptability needed to stay ahead of pathogens and hasten the pace of discovery. Our introduction of a custom dPCR microbial assay design tool alongside the new QIAseq xHXB panels directly caters to our clients’ needs. Qiagen remains committed to broadening our portfolio of user-friendly, precise, and dependable solutions.”
The newly introduced tools include:
– **Design Tool for Custom dPCR Microbial Assays**: This unique tool lets users create primers and probes specifically for their microbial targets, catering to bacterial, fungal, and viral objectives. The software is powered by a state-of-the-art, rigorously evaluated algorithm uniquely designed for microbial contexts, offering a straightforward and intuitive experience that swiftly delivers customized assays with optimal sensitivity and accuracy.
– **QIAseq xHYB Custom Microbial Panels**: This feature permits users to create bespoke NGS panels beyond the restrictions of pre-made options provided by other manufacturers, typically based on a limited number of target genomes, which often result in incomplete coverage. The QIAseq xHYB panels use an advanced algorithm enabling analysis of multiple whole genomes simultaneously, achieving maximal resolution in microbial detection applications.
Qiagen is consistently expanding its dPCR assay range, aiding laboratories in enhancing their detection capabilities and refining their outcomes. In September, the company introduced over 100 new validated QIAcuity digital PCR assays relevant to cancer research, genetic disorder investigation, infectious disease monitoring, among other fields. These newly released assays maintain the high standards of quality, customization, precision, and sensitivity typical of all QIAcuity products.
Customizable assays for digital PCR, along with customizable panels, are now accessible on Qiagen’s GeneGlobe web platform ([GeneGlobe](https://geneglobe.qiagen.com)), which merges pre-made assays with a comprehensive database of more than 10,000 biological elements, including genes, miRNAs, and pathways.
Based in the Netherlands, Qiagen N.V. is a distinguished global provider of Sample to Insight solutions, enabling clients to extract vital molecular insights from samples that embody the elemental building blocks of life.