qPCR analysis of gene expression in single cell

Because the smallest metabolically functional unit of a living organism is a single cell,many people are trying to analyze the molecular components in single cells. But the gene expression data averaged over ensembles of cells in various stages or timing may mask important matters.To peer into expression in single cells, Kambara and his colleagues attached cDNA libraries to dyna-beads coated with a polymer. For the first couple of PCR rounds, the fragments are the template, but then the beads sink to the bottom. To allow for the beads to be reused, the qPCR reaction progresses at a lower-than-usual temperature — the polymer on the bead is heat-sensitive.This qPCR analysis for multiple gene expression is accurate enough for various applications and should bring new perspectives to the understanding of complex biological processes.

zai yang Phua
41090714