There are numerous applications for real-time PCR in the laboratory for both diagnostic and research purposes.
Diagnostic applications
Real-time PCR can rapidly detect nucleic acids that are diagnostic of infectious diseases, cancers, and genetic abnormalities. Real-time PCR has allowed for viral quantitation of infectious and newly emerging diseases such as influenza A H1N1 subtype. In malignant diseases, real-time PCR can be performed directly on genomic DNA to detect translocation-specific malignant cells. For RNA samples, real-time PCR has become extremely important for the detection and monitoring of HIV, hepatitis C, and CMV. Real-time PCR can also be used for array verification and drug therapy efficacy.
Research applications
In a research setting, real-time PCR is used in many projects, where samples containing small amounts of nucleic acids need to be amplified (for further studies) or detected de novo. The uses are as diverse as the measurement of gene transcription to determining the genetic expression of a particular gene over time in response to different pharmacologic agents or environmental conditions. In addition, it can be used to compare gene expression in individuals who have been exposed to certain substances compared to unexposed individuals. The use of real-time PCR in this manner can help researchers find and detect diagnostic or prognostic indicators to increase the understanding of disease pathogenesis, prognosis, and therapy.
