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IQG now process all DNA sexing samples thru Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) devices, also known as real-time PCR. This is a molecular biology technique used to amplify and quantify DNA in real-time. Both traditional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and qPCR methods of molecular sexing relies on the presence or absence of specific DNA markers associated with the sex chromosomes.
Advantages of qPCR vs PCR in the context of gender determination and bird diseases
-Quantification of DNA:
qPCR provides quantitative data by measuring the amount of DNA in real-time during the amplification process. This is particularly useful when determining the sex of birds based on the presence or absence of specific DNA markers on sex chromosomes.
-Accuracy and Precision:
The real-time monitoring of the amplification process in qPCR allows for accurate and precise quantification of DNA. This is crucial when distinguishing between the sexes based on subtle differences in DNA marker abundance.
-Increased Sensitivity:
qPCR is more sensitive than traditional PCR, allowing for the detection of smaller amounts of DNA. This can be important when working with limited or degraded DNA samples, which may be common in non-invasive sampling methods such as feather or eggshell analysis.
-Reduced Contamination Risk:
Since qPCR is a closed-tube system that minimizes post-amplification handling, there is a reduced risk of contamination compared to traditional PCR. This is especially important when working with low-abundance samples.
-High Throughput
qPCR can be easily automated, allowing for high-throughput analysis of multiple samples in a relatively short time. This is advantageous when processing many samples, such as in population studies or breeding programs.
-Elimination of Post-Amplification Steps:
Traditional PCR often requires post-amplification steps, such as gel electrophoresis, to analyze the results.
qPCR eliminates the need for these steps, streamlining the workflow and reducing the time required for analysis.
-Internal Control for Normalization:
qPCR allows for the inclusion of internal controls (housekeeping genes) in the reaction, enabling data normalization. This helps to account for variations in sample quality and amplification efficiency, leading to more reliable results.
-Wide Dynamic Range:
qPCR has a broader dynamic range compared to traditional PCR, meaning it can detect and quantify a wide range of DNA concentrations. This is advantageous when working with samples that may vary in DNA content.
-Ability to Detect Multiple Targets Simultaneously:
qPCR can be multiplexed, allowing the detection and quantification of multiple DNA targets in the same reaction. This is useful when examining multiple sex-specific markers or performing additional genetic analyses in parallel.
At IQ Bird Testing, we know that the health and well-being of your birds is of utmost importance. We offer the most important gender, disease, and genetic testing for your birds. We will put your mind at ease with rapid results in approximately 48 hours with quick turnaround once we receive your samples, while offering efficient customer service and the best prices in the industry.
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