Hello Shreyasri Dutta
You need to have a real-time PCR machine for quantitative studies.
Quantitative PCR (qPCR), is a PCR-based technique that couples amplification of a target DNA sequence with quantification of the concentration of that DNA species in the reaction. This method enables calculation of the starting template concentration and is therefore a frequently used analytical tool in evaluating DNA copy number, viral load, SNP detection, and allelic discrimination. When preceded by reverse-transcription PCR, qPCR is a powerful tool to measure mRNA expression and is the gold standard for microarray gene expression data confirmation.
Furthermore, melting curve analysis immediately after PCR can identify small mutations, down to single base changes. These techniques are becoming easier and faster and can be multiplexed. Real-time PCR methods are a favorable option for the analysis of cancer markers.
You should also have a bioanalyzer system which provides sizing, quantitation and quality control of DNA, RNA, and proteins on a single platform, providing high quality digital data and which is very much required for the study.
Gene sequencing will help identify mutations that cause particular types of cancer. You can have the Sanger sequencer which is a targeted sequencing technique that uses oligonucleotide primers to seek out specific DNA regions. Sanger sequencing will help to determine the sequences of relatively small fragments of human DNA (900 bp or less). These fragments can be used to assemble larger DNA fragments and, eventually, entire chromosomes. Sanger sequencing can be used to target smaller genomic regions in a larger number of samples, sequencing of variable regions, genotyping of microsatellite markers, and identifying single disease-causing genetic variants. All these will provide additional information that can help doctors in treating patients.
Next generation sequencing (NGS) is a technique, sequencing millions of fragments simultaneously per run. This process translates into sequencing hundreds to thousands of genes at one time. NGS also offers greater discovery power to detect novel or rare variants with deep sequencing. But NGS is expensive, and you may or may not need this technique depending on your research needs.
In addition to the above instruments, you will also require the basic equipments for molecular biology like the Thermal Cycler and the Gel Electrophoresis unit which will come useful during your study.
Best.
Malcolm Nobre dear I want to know for initially start up above all parameters basic instrument which I have to buy such as RGQ, AB 3500 or buy only LC 480Z or QS5, AB 3500. Only basic one or two instrument which cover basic qualitative and quantitative mutation analysis in cancer biology. Right now I am not thinking NGS. I wish to start initial molecular testing in cancer biology.
Malcolm Nobre But QS5 is not FDA approval instrument, only RGQ has both FDA and CE IVD approval. So I am thinking to buy RGQ.