FGFR RGQ RT-PCR Kit

For qualitative detection of alterations in the FGFR2 and FGFR3 genes

Products

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostics procedures. No claim or representation is intended to provide information for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a disease.
Image

Rotor-Gene Q 5plex HRM Platform

Cat no. / ID.   9001580

Real-time PCR cycler and High Resolution Melt analyzer with 5 channels (green, yellow, orange, red, crimson) plus HRM channel, laptop computer, software, accessories: includes 1-year warranty on parts and labor, installation and training not included
Image

Rotor-Gene Q 5plex HRM System

Cat no. / ID.   9001650

Real-time PCR cycler and High Resolution Melt analyzer with 5 channels (green, yellow, orange, red, crimson) plus HRM channel, laptop computer, software, accessories: includes 1-year warranty on parts and labor, installation and training
Image

RNeasy FFPE Kit (50)

Cat no. / ID.   73504

50 RNeasy MinElute Spin Columns, Collection Tubes, Proteinase K, RNase-Free DNase I, DNase Booster Buffer, RNase-Free Buffers, RNase-Free Water
Image

Rotor-Gene AssayManager v2.1

Cat no. / ID.   9024203

Software for routine testing in combination with Rotor-Gene Q and Rotor-Gene Q MDx instruments. IMPORTANT: Does not include license for use. License key must be purchased separately. Visit the Download Page for download, installation and licensing instructions.
For up-to-date licensing information or Rotor-Gene Q instrument specific disclaimers, refer to the corresponding Rotor-Gene Q instrument user manual

Features

  • Detection of four point mutations and five fusions
  • High sensitivity and specificity
  • Simple workflow with next-day results
  • Automated data analysis using Rotor-Gene AssayManager v2.1 software

Product Details

The FGFR RGQ RT-PCR Kit is a qualitative assay for the detection of four point mutations in of the FGFR3 gene: exon 7 [p.R248C (c.742C>T), p.S249C (c.746C>G)] and exon 10 [p.G370C (c.1108G>T), p.Y373C (c.1118A>G)]. In addition, the assay detects three fusions in the FGFR3 gene (FGFR3-TACC3v1, FGFR3-TACC3v3 and FGFR3-BAIAP2L1) and two fusions in the FGFR2 gene (FGFR2-BICC1 and FGFR2-CASP7).

Principle

The FGFR RGQ RT-PCR Kit is based on the selective amplification of alterations in the FGFR2 and FGFR3 genes using the Rotor-Gene Q 5plex HRM instrument for sensitive and specific analysis. The assay exploits the qPCR oligonucleotide hydrolysis principle using TaqMan probes.

Allele-specific technology allows accurate and highly reproducible detection of alterations, based on the use of specific forward and reverse primers and probes; only a perfect match between the primers and probes with the target cDNA allows extension and amplification in the PCR reaction. Data analysis is performed automatically. Outputs for each PCR are displayed individually, with "Amplification Detected" displayed when a specific FGFR mutation is detected.

Procedure

The fast and simple workflow takes ~12 hours from Sample to Insight.

RNA is first prepared from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) urothelial tumor samples using the RNeasy DSP FFPE Kit or RNeasy FFPE Kit. Purified RNA is then reverse transcribed using Reverse Transcriptase to generate cDNA for real-time PCR analysis. Optimized reverse transcription reagents and PCR master mixes provided in the kit enable high-fidelity reverse transcription and sensitive real-time PCR on the Rotor-Gene Q 5plex HRM instrument. Qualitative results are displayed in Rotor-Gene AssayManager software, informing the system operator if one or more of the four point mutations and five fusions detected by the kit are present in each sample.

Applications

The FGFR RGQ RT-PCR Kit enables qualitative detection of four point mutations and five fusions in the FGFR2 and FGFR3 genes.

Resources

Brochures & Guides (6)
Sample to Insight solutions for successful molecular analysis
High-quality, nucleic acid purification for successful PCR and NGS experiments.
Second edition — innovative tools
Now with even more applications!
Critical factors for molecular analysis of FFPE samples
Quick-Start Protocols (2)
For purification of total RNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections
Scientific Posters (3)
Scientific Poster
PDF (671KB)
Fast and Integrated Screening Workflow to Assess Gene Expression of Individual Pathways
Safety Data Sheets (1)
Download Safety Data Sheets for QIAGEN product components.
Kit Handbooks (4)
For verification of thermal accuracy of Rotor-Gene real-time cyclers
Instrument User Manuals (5)
For Rotor-Gene Q instruments using Rotor-Gene Q Software version 2.3.4
Guideline for ISO 20836:2020
For use with Rotor-Gene Q Software version 2.3.4
Operating Software (1)
For use on the Rotor-Gene Q. Rotor-Gene Q software 2.3.5 is compatible with Windows 7 and Windows 10 operating systems
Validation Reports (1)
Additional Resources (1)
Analysis Software (1)
Gene Expression Analysis (1)
Certificates of Analysis (1)

FAQ

How can I check the integrity of RNA purified using RNeasy Kits?

The integrity and size distribution of total RNA purified with RNeasy Kits can be checked by denaturing-agarose gel electrophoresis, the Agilent 2100 bioanalyzer, or the QIAxcel Advanced System with the QIAxcel RNA QC Kit v2.0.

The respective ribosomal species should appear as sharp bands on the stained gel. 28S ribosomal RNA bands should be present with an intensity approximately twice that of the 18S RNA band. If the ribosomal bands are not sharp, but appear as a smear of smaller sized RNAs, it is likely that the RNA sample has suffered major degradation during preparation.

Size of ribosomal RNAs from various sources

Source

rRNA

Size (kb)

E. coli

16S

1.5

 

23S

2.9

S. cerevisiae

18S

2.0

 

26S

3.8

Mouse

18S

1.9

 

28S

4.7

Human

18S

1.9

 

28S

5.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FAQ-1024
How can I ensure complete genomic DNA removal when using the RNase-Free DNase Set?

To ensure efficient gDNA removal when doing an on-column digest using the RNase-Free DNase Set in combination with RNeasy Mini the following factors are crucial:

  • prevent overloading by adjusting the amount of starting material to no more than the maximum amounts recommended in the RNeasy Mini Handbook
  • ensure complete disruption and homogenization of the starting material as instructed in the section 'Disruption and homogenization of starting materials' of the handbook
  • strictly follow the protocol for on-column DNase Digestion in Appendix D of the RNeasy Mini Handbook (you can let wash buffer RW1 incubate on the column for 3-5 minutes before centrifuging to enhance removal of excess gDNA prior to applying the enzyme)

In the rare case that trace amounts of genomic DNA are still detectable in sensitive downstream applications such as e.g., realtime RT-PCR, an in-solution digest using the RNase-Free DNAase set can be performed. Instructions are presented in Appendix C of the RNeasy MinElute Cleanup Handbook.

Alternatively, a second on-column digest can be carried out in future preparations, immediately following the RW1 wash after the first incubation with DNase.

FAQ-1087
What is a QuantiTect Primer Assay?

QuantiTect Primer Assays are primer pairs designed and bioinformatically validated specifically for real-time RT-PCR with SYBR Green detection. To find a primer assay for your target gene of interest, please visit our GeneGlobe data base.

For best results, we strongly recommend using QuantiTect Primer Assays in combination with QIAGEN's products for SYBR Green-based Real-Time PCR and RT-PCR.

FAQ-1141
Do you have a kit for the isolation of RNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples?

Yes, we offer the RNeasy FFPE Kit specially designed to purify total RNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections.  It provides special lysis and incubation conditions to reverse formaldehyde modification of RNA typical for formalin fixed tissues.

FAQ-1174
How do you achieve fast cycling, yet still deliver the same performance in PCR as that achieved with standard cycling?

Our unique multiplex PCR buffer system with ammonium and potassium ions and Factor MP has been further optimized in QuantiFast and Rotor-Gene Kits. We have also discovered Q-Bond, a buffer component which supports the rapid formation of the polymerase–primer–template complex, leading to reduced annealing times.

FAQ-1430
How many samples can be run in parallel with the Rotor-Gene Q real-time PCR instrument?

The Rotor-Gene Q instrument can be used with two different rotor formats: using tubes or rotor-dics. Tubes can be run in 36 and 72-well rotors and rotor-discs in Rotor-Disc 72 and Rotor-Disc 100 rotors. When programming the temperature profile please make sure the correct rotor type is selected.  

 

 

FAQ-1519
What is the maximum volume of RNA in solution that can be used with the QuantiTect Whole Transcriptome Kit?

A maximum of 5 µl RNA eluate from RNeasy extraction procedures can be added to the reverse-transcription reaction with the QuantiTect Whole Transcriptome Kit.

 

 

FAQ-1616
Is a passive internal reference dye, like ROX, required on the Rotor-Gene Q to obtain reproducible results?

No. The fixed optical path ensures uniform illumination and detection from sample to sample eliminating the need to use a reference dye such as ROX on the Rotor-Gene Q.

 

 

FAQ-2079
How fast does the rotor spin during a run on the Rotor-Gene Q?

The sample rotor of the Rotor-Gene Q spins continuously at a speed of 400 rpm during a run.

 

FAQ-2080
Does the centrifugal force have any effect on the kinetics of a PCR reaction on the Rotor-Gene Q?

No. The speed at which the samples spin on the Rotor-Gene Q is not high enough to apply any significant centrifugal force on them.

 

 

 

FAQ-2081
Can 0.1 ml and 0.2 ml tubes used on the Rotor-Gene Q be labeled?

Both types of tubes run on the Rotor-Gene Q, and can be labeled on the top without any interference with data acquisition, because signal is detected from the bottom of the tube. Labeling is helpful and can prevent possible sample mix up.

 

FAQ-2082
How many signal readings are taken during the real-time data acquisition on the Rotor-Gene Q?

At the selected data acquisition step of the thermal cycle on the Rotor-Gene Q, the fluorescent signal intensity is measured 20 times for each sample as they spin past the detector. Tubes on a rotor spin past the excitation/detection optics every 150 milliseconds. The average of the 20 readings is then taken as the fluorescence of the sample at that cycle number.

 

FAQ-2083
What types of reaction vessels are required for use in the Rotor-Gene Q?

We strongly recommend use of the dedicated Rotor-Gene Q Accessories, e.g., PCR Tubes 0.2 ml or Strip Tubes and Caps 0.1 ml provided by QIAGEN. These tubes are designed to give low background and perfectly match the Rotor-Gene Q requirements.

 

FAQ-2085
If new dyes or chemistries appear on the real-time PCR market, will Rotor-Gene Q be capable of running those dyes?

The Rotor-Gene Q software allows creation of new excitation/detection wavelength combinations, which means that Rotor-Gene Q will work with dyes you may want to use in the future.

 

FAQ-2087
How is the log graph threshold value (Ct) for the Rotor-Gene Q determined?

Based on the defined standards present, the automatic threshold function of the Rotor-Gene Q scans through all the possible threshold levels until the best fit is determined. This is defined as the R value or correlation coefficient, which is maximized to most closely approach 1.0. If there is no standard present, the threshold can also be set manually.

 

FAQ-2088
Does the Rotor-Gene Q software have the capacity to export data?

There are several features available to allow exporting data across platforms to a variety of software packages. Sample names can easily be imported into the Rotor-Gene Q Excel sample sheets. By using a function "Export to Excel" the software automatically exports any results table in the software to Excel. Furthermore, reports can now be exported as Word files, which make the data compatible with any Microsoft office/Mac application. Reports can also be saved or sent in HTML format. All figures and graphs can be exported as Jpeg or Bitmap files for use in any desktop publishing software.

 

FAQ-2089
Can data be analyzed on the Rotor-Gene Q while a run is in progress?

Yes, data can be analyzed on the Rotor-Gene Q while a run is in progress, allowing to save time for planning and setting up new experiments. Multiple copies of the Rotor-Gene Q software can be opened simultaneously during a run allowing analysis of previous experiments while the system is running.

 

FAQ-2091
Is it possible to edit the sample sheet in the Rotor-Gene Q software after a PCR run?

Yes. The sample sheet can be amended during or after a PCR run by activating the 'Edit samples' button in the Rotor-Gene Q software. The sample sheet will open and may be modified.

 

FAQ-2092
Is it possible to import a standard curve from a previous PCR run on the Rotor-Gene Q?

Yes. If the reaction efficiency between two PCR runs is not expected to vary, importing a standard curve from a previous run allows to estimate concentrations when a standard curve for the current run is not available. Curves can be imported from another channel, or from another run by clicking on 'Import Curve' in the Rotor-Gene Q software. Standard curves can be adjusted such that only the efficiency of the source curve is imported into the current run. Whether a standard curve should be adjusted depends on the PCR chemistry used. To adjust a standard curve, use a reference with a known concentration in the target run.

 

FAQ-2093
Do you have a protocol for Rotor-Gene software setup for the Rotor-Gene SYBR Green PCR and RT-PCR Kits?
Are Rotor-Gene Kits compatible with reaction setup using the QIAgility instrument?

The majority of the Rotor-Gene Kit data shown in our literature has been generated with the help of the QIAgility instrument. We did not observe any problems during the pipetting steps.

 

FAQ-2116
Do the master mixes in Rotor-Gene Kits contain dUTP to allow UNG pretreatment?

No. The master mixes in Rotor-Gene Kits contain dTTP instead of dUTP. If UNG treatment is required, we recommend using QuantiTect +UNG Kits. QuantiTect Kits are also compatible with the Rotor-Gene Q; however, the kits require a significantly longer cycling time.

 

 

FAQ-2117
Why is the initial activation step different for Rotor-Gene Probe, SYBR Green and Multiplex Kits?

The buffer composition, which affects the initial reactivation of HotStarTaq Plus DNA Polymerase, has been optimized for each respective Rotor-Gene Kit.

 

FAQ-2118
What are the main differences between Rotor-Gene and QuantiTect or QuantiFast PCR Kits?

Rotor-Gene Kits are specifically developed for the Rotor-Gene Q PCR Cycler. The unique rotary system of the cycler combined with the kits’ proprietary buffer system enable ultrafast cycling. Rotor-Gene Kits do not contain ROX dye since no normalization to a passive reference is required. Also, Rotor-Gene Kits do not contain dUTP; therefore, UNG pretreatment is not possible.

 

FAQ-2119
Will Rotor-Gene Kits also work on the Rotor-Gene 6000 and 3000 cyclers?

Yes. Rotor-Gene Kits will also work on the Rotor-Gene 6000 and Rotor-Gene 3000 PCR cyclers with the cycling conditions specified in the Rotor-Gene kit handbooks.

 

FAQ-2121
Why is a 2-step (and not a 3-step) cycling protocol recommended for Rotor-Gene SYBR Green Kits?

This type of cycling allows a significant reduction in cycling time for Rotor-Gene SYBR Green PCR Kits. It is more effective than reducing the individual times for annealing and extension.

 

FAQ-2122
Do QuantiTect Primer Assays also work with Rotor-Gene SYBR Green PCR Kits?

We have performed numerous tests comparing the performance of Rotor-Gene SYBR Green PCR Kits and QuantiTect Kits with QuantiTect Primer Assays. Due to the optimized ion concentrations in the PCR buffers, both perform equally well with QuantiTect Primer Assays and do not require any adjustment of primer concentration.

 

FAQ-2123
Will QuantiTect Primer Assays work with Rotor-Gene SYBR Green Kits using an annealing step at 60ºC?

Based on our extensive and successful testing of many QuantiTect Primer Assays with Rotor-Gene SYBR Green PCR Kits, we guarantee this.

 

 

FAQ-2124
How do Rotor-Gene Probe Kits compare with QuantiFast Probe Kits?

Rotor-Gene Probe Kits are specially developed for Rotor-Gene cyclers. The unique rotary system of the cyclers combined with the kits’ proprietary buffer system enable ultrafast cycling. Rotor-Gene Probe Kits do not contain ROX dye.

 

FAQ-2125
Are TaqMan® Gene Expression Assays from Applied Biosystems compatible with Rotor-Gene Probe Kits?

Yes, use the assays at a final concentration of 1x with Rotor-Gene Probe Kits on the Rotor-Gene Q cycler.

See trademarks.  

FAQ-2126
Do limiting primer concentrations need to be determined when using the Rotor-Gene Multiplex PCR Kit?

No, that is not necessary. Simply use the primer concentrations specified in the protocols in the handbook supplied with your Rotor-Gene Multiplex PCR Kit.

 

 

FAQ-2128
Are TaqMan® Gene Expression Assays from Applied Biosystems compatible with the Rotor-Gene Multiplex PCR Kit?

Yes, simply use the assays at a final concentration of 1x with the Rotor-Gene Multiplex PCR Kit.

See trademarks

FAQ-2131
Can the Rotor-Gene Multiplex RT-PCR Kit be used on other cyclers?

The specific features of Rotor-Gene Kits and Rotor-Gene cyclers work synergetically to enable an ultrafast-cycling protocol. We do not guarantee that the performance of the Rotor-Gene Multiplex RT-PCR Kit with the same cycling protocol will be the same on other cyclers.

 

 

FAQ-2142
If Vapor-Lock is used to overlay PCR reactions, which volume should be entered as reaction volume in the Rotor-Gene Q Software?

The reaction volume to be entered in the Rotor-Gene Q software should be the sum of the PCR reaction volume and the volume of Vapor-Lock.

 

 

FAQ-2150
Can Vapor-Lock be used with samples processed on the QIAgility?

Vapor-Lock is fully compatible with the QIAgility instrument for high-precision, automated reaction setup. It is also highly suited for use with the Rotor-Gene Q cycler. For support to program your QIAgility instrument for use with Vapor-Lock, please contact your local QIAGEN Technical Support Department.

 

 

FAQ-2153
What are the effects of low A260/A230 ratios in RNA preparations on downstream applications?

The efficiency of downstream applications depends strongly on the purity of the RNA sample used.  Pure RNA should yield an A260/A230 ratio of around 2 or slightly above; however, there is no consensus on the acceptable lower limit of this ratio.  Possible candidates that can increase the A230 include “salt”, carbohydrates, peptides, and phenol (or aromatic compounds in general).  In our experience, the increased absorbance at 230 nm in RNA samples is almost always due to contamination with guanidine thiocyanate, present at very high concentrations in the lysis buffer or extraction reagent used in most RNA purification procedures.

Please find an article discussing the effect of low 260/230 ratios in RNA preparations on downstream applications on page 7 of QIAGEN Newsletter March 15, 2010 . In summary, we found that concentrations of guanidine thiocyanate of up to 100 mM in an RNA sample do not compromise the reliability of downstream applications.

 

 

FAQ-2248
In the REST software, what is the range indicated by 'Std. Error' on the 'Results' page?
In the REST 2009 software, the range for the Standard Error on the results tab is 68% C.I. (confidence interval).
FAQ-2455
How is the hypothesis test performed in the REST software?
In the REST 2009 software, the hypothesis test performs 10,000 random reallocations of samples and controls between the groups, and counts the number of times the relative expression on the randomly assigned group is greater than the sample data.
FAQ-2459
How long does a run take?
An Investigator Quantiplex Pro or Quantiplex Pro RGQ run of 40 cycles takes ca. 60 minutes. 
For Investigator Quantiplex on the Rotor-Gene Q, a run of 40 cycles takes ca. 55 minutes. On the Applied Biosystems 7500 Real-Time PCR System, a run of 40 cycles takes ca. 57 minutes.
FAQ-2566
Investigator Quantiplex: For which real-time cyclers has the kit been validated?
The Investigator Quantiplex Kit has been validated for the Rotor-Gene Q, and the Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast and 7500 Real-Time PCR Systems.
FAQ-2567
Investigator Quantiplex: Which version of the Rotor Gene-Q software can be used to run the kit?
Using the Investigator Quantiplex on the Rotor-Gene Q: All versions of the Rotor-Gene Q software can be used to run the Investigator Quantiplex.
FAQ-2568
During data analysis, how should the threshold be set in the Yellow channel on the Rotor-Gene Q cycler to analyze the Internal Control from the QuantiFast Pathogen PCR +IC Kit or the QuantiFast Pathogen RT-PCR +IC Kit
On the Rotor-Gene Q, setting the threshold in the Yellow channel to an absolute value of 0.05 will give satisfactory results in most cases.
FAQ-2607
What real-time cycler should I use for my qPCR experiments?
There are several manufacturers of high-quality real-time cyclers. These include QIAGEN's Rotor-Gene Q, Applied Biosystems, BioRad, Stratagene, Eppendorf, Roche, TaKaRa, Fluidigm, and Cepheid. The important thing to keep in mind is that, once you select an instrument to use, you must use compatible Rotor-Gene Discs and tubes, 96 or 384 well plates, and qPCR master mixes that are optimized for use in that particular instrument.  For example, QIAGEN's Rotor-Gene SYBR Green, Probe, and Multiplex real-time master mixes.  
FAQ-2670
Which qPCR instrument should I use with your RT² qPCR Primer Assays?

Our RT² qPCR Primer Assays may be used on any real-time instrument. qPCR solutions are available for the most popular qPCR instrumentation, including those from QIAGEN, ABI, BioRad, Stratagene.

Instrument-specific protocols are available for selected instruments, and can be accessed at the following link: http://www.sabiosciences.com/pcrarrayprotocolfiles.php

FAQ-2714
What is the composition of Buffer RLT?

The exact composition of Buffer RLT is confidential. This buffer is a proprietary component of RNeasy Kits. Buffer RLT contains a high concentration of guanidine isothiocycanate, which supports the binding of RNA to the silica membrane. Buffer RLT can be purchased separately (cat. no. 79216)

Note: note that ß-mercaptoethanol should be added to Buffer RLT before use to effectively inactivate RNAses in the lysate (10 µl ß-Mercaptoethanol per 1 ml Buffer RLT).

FAQ-2793
What is the composition of Buffer RW1?

The exact composition of Buffer RW1 is confidential. Buffer RW1 is a proprietary component of RNeasy Kits. Buffer RW1 contains a guanidine salt, as well as ethanol, and is used as a stringent washing buffer that efficiently removes biomolecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids etc., that are non-specifically bound to the silica membrane. At the same time, RNA molecules larger than 200 bases remain bound to the column.

Note: Buffer RW1 should not be used for isolation of small RNAs, for example, microRNAs or fragmented RNA from formalin-fixed tissues, as these smaller fragments will be washed away.  Buffer RWT should be used instead.

FAQ-2796
What is the composition of Buffer RPE?
The exact composition of Buffer RPE is confidential. Buffer RPE is a mild washing buffer, and a proprietary component of RNeasy Kits. Its main function is to remove traces of salts, which are still on the column due to buffers used earlier in the protocol. Ethanol, which is added by the user just before using the kit for the first time, is an important ingredient of Buffer RPE.
FAQ-2797
What is the composition of Buffer PKD?
The exact composition of Buffer PKD is proprietary. Buffer PKD functions as a Proteinase K Digestion Buffer and is a component of, for example, the AllPrep DNA/RNA FFPE Kit, RNeasy FFPE Kit, and the miRNeasy FFPE Kit. We are sometimes asked if Buffer PKD comprises any RNase inhibitors or RNase inhibiting agents — since the formalin-fixation of the starting material has already inactivated the RNases, no such reagents are present in this buffer.
FAQ-2801
I received a kit containing the MinElute columns; however, they were left out for a while and not stored at 2–8°C upon receipt. Can I still use them?

The MinElute spin columns included in the following kits should be stored at 2–8°C upon arrival: AllPrep DNA/RNA Micro, EpiTect Fast DNA Bisulfite, EpiTect Fast FFPE Bisulfite, EpiTect Fast LyseAll Bisulfite, EpiTect Plus DNA Bisulfite, EpiTect Plus FFPE Bisulfite, EpiTect Plus LyseAll Bisulfite, exoRNeasy Serum/plasma Maxi, exoRNeasy Serum/Plasma Midi, GeneRead DNA FFPE, GeneRead rRNA Depletion, GeneRead Size Selection, MinElute Gel Extraction, MinElute PCR Purification, MinElute Reaction Cleanup, miRNeasy FFPE, miRNeasy Micro, miRNeasy Serum/Plasma, QIAamp DNA FFPE, QIAamp DNA Investigator, QIAamp DNA Micro, QIAamp MinElute Media, QIAamp MinElute Virus Spin, QIAamp MinElute Virus Vacuum, RNeasy FFPE, RNeasy Micro, RNeasy Plus Micro.

Short-term storage (up to 4 weeks) at room temperature (15–25°C) does not affect the performance. However, for optimal performance and quality, storage temperature should not exceed 25°C.

FAQ-3560
Which downstream applications have been tested with SARS-CoV-2-derived RNA purified from saliva collected into PAXgene Saliva Collector?

RNA purified with the QIAamp Viral RNA Mini Kit has been used for quantification by qPCR with QuantiTect Probe RT-PCR Kit on QIAGEN Rotor-Gene Q.

FAQ-3828
What is Tissue-Tek O.C.T., and what is it used for?

Tissue-Tek O.C.T. is an embedding compound for cryosectioning, which is soluble in water. It mainly consists of glycols and synthetic resins. Tissue-Tek O.C.T. is used as matrix for cryosectioning of tissues. Using the O.C.T. the tissue samples can be positioned more easily in the microtome and have better qualities during sectioning.

Most cryosections are fixed using non-crosslinking agents. For isolation of RNA from tissue embedded in Tissue-Tek O.C.T. using non-crosslinking agents the RNeasy Plus Micro Kit or the RNeasy Micro Kit (Protocol: Total RNA Isolation from Microdissected Cryosections), or the RNeasy Mini Kit (RNeasy Mini Protocol for the isolation of Total RNA from Animal Tissue) give great results. We strongly recommend removing as much of the embedding compound as possible prior to RNA extraction from the sections. Please see QIAGEN News article, Issue 1 1998, 'Effects of malnutrition on expression of lactase in children' for successful RNA isolation from O.C.T.-embedded tissue using the RNeasy Mini Kit.

In case crosslinking agents (e.g. formaldehyde or glyoxal-containing) were used for fixation of the tissue for cryosectioning the RNeasy FFPE Kit is the perfect choice. The RNeasy FFPE Kit is especially designed for purifying total RNA from formalin-fixed tissue sections. Special lysis and incubation conditions reverse formaldehyde modification of RNA for improved results in downstream application. The crosslinking causes the RNA to break, resulting in overall smaller molecules, which look like a smear when analyzed on a formaldehyde gel.

In case DNA as well as RNA from precious samples is of interest from the identical sections, please have a look at the AllPrep DNA/RNA Kits for unfixed tissue or the AllPrep DNA/RNA FFPE Kit for fixed tissue.

FAQ-530
Do you have a kit for RNA isolation from any kind of sample type?

The RNeasy 96 Universal Tissue Kit enables high-throughput purification of RNA from any animal or human tissue sample, including difficult-to-lyse fibrous and fatty tissues. For single tube format RNA purification, the RNeasy Plus Universal Kit is also available. 

Please refer to the Selection guide for RNA isolation for all sample types to find the optimal solution for your sample source.

FAQ-627
What can be used as an alternative to the A260 measurement for quantification of small amounts of RNA and DNA?

Small amounts of RNA and DNA may be difficult to measure spectrophotometrically. Fluorometric measurements, or quantitative RT-PCR and PCR are more sensitive and accurate methods to quantify low amounts of RNA or DNA.

Fluorometric measurements are carried out using nucleic acid binding dyes, such as RiboGreen® RNA Quantitation Reagent for RNA, and PicoGreen® DNA Quantitation Reagent for DNA (Molecular Probes, Inc.).

FAQ-728
Are there specific recommendations for performing RT-PCR on RNA isolated from paraffin-embedded samples?

Paraffin-embedded or fixed samples typically yield fragmented, partially degraded RNA. In addition, RNA quality will depend greatly on the handling of the samples before, during, and after the fixation procedure. 

If performing RT-PCR with degraded RNA, we recommend using gene-specific primers or random nonamers rather than oligo-dT primers, since the mRNA poly-A tail may have been lost due to degradation.

We recommend that the RNeasy FFPE or miRNeasy FFPE kit be used to isolate the RNA.

FAQ-828