Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology is experiencing a surge of interest and rapid expansion as a result of advances such as instrumentation that pushes capacity to 1,536 wells and optimization-free multiplexing, reports Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN). The technique’s ability to both detect and simultaneously quantify specific DNA sequences is increasing its use [...]

In the last decade, advances in the understanding of genes promoting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation are impressive. However, there are few breakthroughs in therapeutic intervention of hepatic fibrogenesis. Efficient and well-tolerated antifibrotic drugs are lacking and current treatment of hepatic fibrosis is limited to withdrawal of the noxious agent. Research identifying innocuous antifibrotic agents [...]

Data published in Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research, offers new insights into the biology of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Specifically, microRNA profiles differ according to clinical disease phenotype, therefore, scientists may be able to use these profiles to identify gene-regulatory and biological differences between tumors.

DIATHERIX Laboratories, Inc. is pleased to announce it has been granted emergency use authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its DIATHERIX H1N1-09 Influenza Test. The test utilizes the company’s proprietary molecular technology, known as Target Enriched Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (Tem-PCR), which is used for the detection of the H1N1-09 [...]

Breast cancer therapy that’s customized for each patient’s personal genetic makeup is one step closer to reality, thanks to a new use for crime-lab technology pioneered at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). A team led by Petr Starostik, MD, chief of RPCI’s Clinical Molecular Diagnostics lab, is using CSI-type methods to multiply the reliability of [...]