Bio-Rad Laboratories has announced the launch of iQ-Check real-time PCR high throughout protocols.

To meet the demands of high volume users, a high throughput DNA extraction procedure was developed using a 96-well deepwell microplate format. These new faster, easier DNA extraction protocols have been granted Performance Tested MethodSM status by the AOAC Research Institute for Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. After an 8-24 hour sample enrichment, depending on the test, there is one 15 minute heating step and the samples are ready for PCR. All transfers can be done with a multichannel pipette for ease of use. Extraction is the same for all tests so all samples can be run at the same time, on the same plate.

Two instrument platforms are available to run the iQ-Check test. The MiniOpticon is a 48-well real-time instrument for small to medium volume users. For high throughout analysis, the CFX96 instrument is available. To run these instruments, Bio-Rad has created a new user-friendly software. The CFX Manager software is a powerful tool for life science research customers. The Industrial Diagnostic Edition (IDE) of this software was designed with the user experience in mind created especially for the needs of food scientists. It combines the power of the research software with the ease of use that is expected in the food industry. The IDE software has many extra features including automatic email notification of results, sample setup in plate or table format, import and export to LIMS, improved traceability, various security levels from admin with full rights to user with limited rights, reagent lot tracking and many other user preferences that can be customized.

The iQ-Check high throughput protocols combined with the IDE software make real-time PCR for pathogen detection faster, easier and better. For more information, visit www.foodscience.bio-rad.com or e-mail Bio-Rad at FoodScience@bio-rad.com.