The evolution of PCR

qPCR is a well-established and relatively straight-forward diagnostic method that, as the most accurate method of testing available, has been used extensively during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, however, has highlighted the importance of accuracy in diagnostic methods in order to properly control a pandemic of such proportions.

This renewed focus on accuracy has led to updates in the technology and process of qPCR and to the rapid development of a less well-established technique – droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The increased sensitivity and precision of this technique have brought it into the spotlight as a part of the next generation of diagnostic techniques.

This In Focus will highlight the role of qPCR and ddPCR in COVID-19 testing covering:

• The strengths and weaknesses of qPCR and ddPCR and how to minimize these
• The key differences between qPCR and ddPCR
• The various applications of qPCR and ddPCR