Quantification of murine cytokine mRNAs using real time quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR

L Overbergh, D Valckx, M Waer, C Mathieu - Cytokine, 1999 - Elsevier
L Overbergh, D Valckx, M Waer, C Mathieu
Cytokine, 1999Elsevier
Recently, a novel technique for “real time” quantitative Reverse Transcriptase-PCR which
measures PCR-product accumulation during the exponential phase of the PCR reaction
using a dual-labelled fluorogenic probe, has been developed. This method allows direct
detection of PCR-product formation by measuring the increase in fluorescent emission
continuously during the PCR reaction. Here we present data validating this PCR-method for
the quantification of murine cytokines and other factors playing a role in immune regulation …
Recently, a novel technique for “real time” quantitative Reverse Transcriptase-PCR which measures PCR-product accumulation during the exponential phase of the PCR reaction using a dual-labelled fluorogenic probe, has been developed. This method allows direct detection of PCR-product formation by measuring the increase in fluorescent emission continuously during the PCR reaction. Here we present data validating this PCR-method for the quantification of murine cytokines and other factors playing a role in immune regulation (IL-1, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-13, IL-15, IFN-γTNF-αTGF-β and iNOS). For each substance of interest, a set of primers and internal probe was designed, which specifically amplify the target cDNA, not co-amplifying contaminating genomic DNA. Furthermore, a corresponding reference plasmid cDNA clone was constructed, allowing direct quantification. Additionally, normalization to the housekeeping genes β-actin or GAPDH was performed. The assay is very sensitive and accurate. It is a “closed-tube” PCR reaction, avoiding time-consuming and hazardous post-PCR manipulations and decreasing the potential risk of PCR contamination.
Elsevier