Real-Time PCR and qdPCR GM Detection on the Fluidigm BioMark™ HD System

Genetically modified crops  are engineered to convey favorable traits such as disease resistance.  Labeling and identification of genetic modifications (GMs) in commercial products have become a global concern.  There are two standard methods for GM identification: quantitative real-time PCR (real-time PCR ) and end-point digital PCR.  In this study, we demonstrate the utility of the Fluidigm BioMark HD System with Dynamic Array™ Integrated Fluidic Circuits (IFCs) or the qdPCR 37K™ (37K) IFCs for real-time GM detection.  Real-time analysis provides Ct values that identify false positives and provide greater data confidence.  We use the Gossypium hirsutum genome (cotton; C=2.40; GM free) and GM event GHB 614 (614) detected by their respective TaqMan® assays, to determine the limit of GM detection on the 96.96 IFC and 192.24 IFC for real-time PCR  and the 37K IFC for quantitative digital PCR(qdPCR).  Pre-amplification was not necessary.