Poland: qPCR for the detection of Legionella spp. and E. Coli in hot tap water systems
In this study, L. spp., L. pneumophila, and E. coli bacteria were quantified from total DNA extracts of hot tap water samples using the MIC qPCR platform with TaqMan probes. The obtained results prove the presence of these bacteria in hot tap water installations in the majority of the examined buildings.
Finland: Molecular point-of-care testing for rapid diagnosis of common colds occurring in elite athletes
Molecular point-of-care testing (POCT) consists of a multiplex qPCR for rapid diagnosis of the aetiological agent causing the common cold. It allows for effective treatment and enhance timely isolation to decrease viral transmission.
Iran & USA: GO/Au nanocomposite enhances amplification in PCR systems
The effect of GO/Au nanocomposite was studied on end-point and real-time PCR (performed on the Mic Real-Time Cycler) employed for amplification of human GAPDH gene. The results showed that the GO/Au nanocomposite can improve both end-point and real time PCR methods at optimum concentrations, possibly through providing increased thermal convection by the GO surface as well as the Au nanostructures.
USA & China: Noninflammatory changes in Microglia contribute to epileptogenesis
The effects of electroconvulsive shock on microglia was measured by mRNA expression analysis, using two-step RT-qPCR performed on the Mic Real-Time Cycler. The results showed physiological changes in microglia but no neural injury, which may be relevant to electroconvulsive therapy.
Hungary: Severe kidney disease in Malaysian broiler chickens
A RT-qPCR, performed on the Mic Real-Time Cycler, was used to validate the identification of the etiological agent causing severe kidney disease in broiler chickens. The virus detected was found to be the virus Kedah fatal kidney syndrome virus (KFKSV).
USA & China: Rapid diagnostic kit for accurate assessment of antifungal resistance of C. auris
A rapid diagnostic kit was developed for accurate and rapid assessment of FKS1-associated echinocandin resistance and ERG11-associated azole resistance in C. auris. The diagnostic platform used a duplex asymmetric PCR in conjunction with molecular beacon probe-based melting curve analysis that was performed on the Mic Real-Time PCR cycler.
Switzerland: ChIP assay for study of specific-nuclear signaling factors
In this study, a TF-ChIP protocol was developed to study specific nuclear signalling factors in cancers. The protocol produces high quality DNA output and can be reproduced using both fresh and fresh-frozen tissues, which is important in a clinical setting.