PCR, short for Polymerase Chain Reaction, is the most widely used medical consumable in molecular biology that helps amplify specific DNA sequences. This powerful tool has completely transformed various fields, such as diagnostics, genetics, and biotechnology. However, for an accurate and precise outcome of the PCR, scientists depend on one crucial element called PCR plates.
In this blog post, you will explore and learn about the significance of PCR plates, their vital components, their characteristics, and their use in modern research.
PCR Plates Defined
PCR plates, also called PCR microplates or PCR trays, are plastic plates specially designed to preserve the reaction mixtures for PCR. Typically, these plates consist of 96 or 384 individual wells that are kept rectangular. The wells of these plates are relatively small−cylindrical depressions that can cater to even the tiniest volumes of reagents, ranging from 10 to 100 microliters.
Made of premium quality chemically resistant materials such as polypropylene, the 96/384-well PCR Plates ensure optimal compatibility with the temperature variations and chemical reactions involved in the PCR process.
The Rudimentary Aspects of PCR Plates
The PCR 96 and 384 Well Plates are engineered with various pivotal features to improve the PCR process. These include:
Thermal Conductivity:
PCR plates comprise outstanding thermal conductivity, which promises uniform heat distribution across all wells during the process of thermal cycling. Also, this feature assures the most consistent and precise results by curtailing fluctuations in the temperature.
Flatness And Clarity:
The 96/384-well PCR plates’ flatness and optical transparency allow for to-the-point visualization of reaction contents. This aspect is particularly imperative for real-time PCR, where fluorescent signals are measured during intensification.
Well Configuration:
PCR plates can be found in several well configurations, for example PCR with uniform and thin walls maximize consistent heat transfer to and from the reaction samples. On the other hand, Ultrathin–wall plastics, which are nearly 50% thinner than the typical version, further decreases the thermal barrier, resulting in quicker and more robust reactions.
Sealing Options:
It is pivotal to know that PCR plates can be sealed with adhesive films, caps, or heat seals in order to avoid evaporation and contamination. The sealing ensures the integrity of the reaction mixtures throughout the PCR process.
Applications of PCR Plates
Find numerous applications for PCR 96 and 384 Well Plates in various molecular biology research areas, including:
Gene Expression Analysis:
PCR plates are typically used for gene expression studies with reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) or quantitative PCR (qPCR). Researchers can concurrently examine the expression levels of multiple genes in several biological samples.
Genotyping And Mutation Analysis:
PCR plates aid genotyping and mutation detection by augmenting specific genomic regions, a crucial aspect in fields, namely medical genetics, forensic science, and population genetics to begin with.
Pathogen Detection:
PCR plates play a substantial role in determining pathogens by enlarging specific DNA or RNA sequences unique to the target organism. This tactic enables swift and precise recognition of contagious agents.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS):
PCR plates are used in library preparation for NGS workflows to amplify DNA fragments before sequencing. NGS technologies have developed genomics research by allowing high-throughput sequencing of whole genomes.
Find the Best-Quality 96 and 384-well PCR Plates At MBP INC.
If you’re looking for reliable PRC products, then MBP Inc. is the most appropriate place. Inaugurated in 2002, MBP INC. started its venture of providing the highest-quality lab consumables, including 96/384-well PCR plates across Canada and the USA. Our cost-effective quotes and 24/7 customer service make us a widely trusted source for purchasing lab suppliers.
To Summarize
PCR plates are one of the most prominent tools in molecular biology research, allowing the amplification of DNA sequences with speed, precision, and reproducibility. Made of high-quality polypropylene, whether 96 or 384 well plates, they offer various components that elevate the efficiency and reliability of PCR-based experiments, making room for innovative discoveries and advancements in different scientific fields. Last but not least, the versatility and comprehensive applications make PCR 96 and 384 well plates a valued asset in science.
