Robot-Assisted PCR Among Innovations Driving qPCR Sector

Seeking efficiency in the qPCR process, a number of automation and robotics technologies have been added to product offerings from top competitors. According to the new Kalorama Information (New York, NY, USA) report “qPCR and dPCR Markets: Clinical and Research Markets,” this is one factor driving the usefulness of this workhorse lab technology.

The Kalorama report on quantitative-PCR (qPCR) and digital-PCR (dPCR) specifies relevant markets for in vitro diagnostics (IVD) applications and for general research of diseases and new drug development. It also lists companies that currently provide robot qPCR services. The total qPCR market is valued at about USD 3.2 billion for 2013, up from USD 2.8 billion in 2011, an increase of 5.9%.

Robots can provide the precision needed to run smaller reactions, which can reduce cost by stretching reagents and samples much further, by 25%–50%. Robots also can save time, typically requiring less time to prepare reactions. Robots used for qPCR are generally small in size, single-channel, with at least 6 separate spaces on the deck. A hood over the surface helps minimize contamination. Software is critical to the functioning of the qPCR robot.

"Robots bring speed and precision to PCR," said Mary Anne Crandall, Kalorama analyst and author of the report, "These, in turn, are expected to bring cost savings. Because of the advantages of robotics in qPCR, it is anticipated that the market will become increasingly automated and robots will become standard in the qPCR laboratory."

Most modernized laboratories either possess a qPCR instrument or have access to one. Many laboratories produce a huge number of reactions daily, and require skilled personnel to set up and run the operations. Because there are differences between operators and between laboratories, there can be significant differences in pipetting of samples, which can translate into questionable reproducibility. Robots can provide the precision necessary to address these issues.

Related Links:
Kalorama Information
qPCR and dPCR: Research and Clinical Markets, report