Bio-Rad Laboratories has introduced the MIQE qPCR app, designed to provide researchers with resources and checklists needed to ensure MIQE compliance for their qPCR experiments.
MIQE stands for Minimum Information for Publication of Quantitative Real-Time PCR Experiments.
The MIQE qPCR app, sponsored by Bio-Rad, is available free from the Apple App Store.
Rachel Scott, senior product manager, gene expression at Bio-Rad, said: 'qPCR is a common lab technique used by most life-science researchers today, but not everyone conducting PCR is using the technique in a way that ensures its correct interpretation.
'As a result of misinterpretation of qPCR data, significant scientific conclusions have been retracted for inaccuracies.
'The MIQE qPCR app gives users the ability to check off applicable MIQE attributes, which in turn increases the users' and scientific community's confidence in the project's validity,' she added.
The app was developed by real-time PCR experts Michael W Pfaffl, a professor at Technische Universitat Munchen, and Afif Abdel Nour, an associate professor at the Institut Polytechnique LaSalle Beauvais.
It helps researchers achieve accuracy, transparency, and reproducibility in their qPCR experiments.
Colour-coded checklists distinguish between essential and desirable MIQE requirements, and a visual indication of progress is provided.
Users can link directly to MIQE-related publications or direct their qPCR- or MIQE-related questions to the experts listed via e-mail.
The most current qPCR resources, references, and news are readily available.
Users can send their completed project checklists to the worldwide MIQE guideline database where the information will be used to further refine the MIQE guidelines.
The MIQE qPCR app runs on Apple's Iphone, Ipod Touch, or Ipad.
