Molecular Biology

RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) has become an increasingly popular technique for transcriptome profiling^[1]. The preparation of high-quality RNA-Seq libraries is critical to the reliability of the sequencing data, in which the integrity and purity of the input RNA play a critical role. Therefore, it is a good practice to perform quality control on the input RNA before proceeding to NGS library preparation. Here, we provide some top recommendations to help preserve and verify the quality of input RNA for more robust RNA-Seq libraries.

More than 10,000 liters of non-sterile air pass through our lungs each day. Although most pathogens are filtered out in the upper respiratory tract, evidence suggests that some bacteria make their way into the alveoli where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in the lungs. In their recently published work, a research team led by Paul Kubes at the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada developed a method for visualizing alveolar macrophages (AMs) as they clear bacteria from the lungs. Using Bio X Cell’s anti-Mouse IFNγ antibody (Clone: XMG1.2), they discovered that infection with respiratory viruses such as flu or COVID-19 paralyzes macrophages through the type II interferon signaling pathway, paving the way for potentially deadly secondary bacterial infections.

Congratulations! You have collected your urine sample. What do you do now? Do you…

1. Leave it at room temperature and risk degradation of precious DNA and RNA
2. Freeze it at -80°C and lose yield due to protein precipitation
3. Use a preservative (hint, it’s this one)

WE HAVE A PARASITE PROBLEM

Optimization of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) has advanced genomics significantly over the last ten years allowing cost effective metagenomics and de novo genome assembly. Current sequencing technology is based upon the accumulation of short reads (100 – 300 bp) and must be accurately reassembled into the original genome. Although powerful, short read sequencing faces several challenges when assembling genomes. For example, genomic sequence repeats and large structural variation such as translocations and duplications are more difficult to detect and may cause a decrease in accuracy¹.

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as powerful tools in the field of research and academia, changing our understanding of diseases, therapeutics, and experimental techniques. These highly specific antibodies are produced by identical immune cells and have diverse applications across several disciplines. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of monoclonal antibodies and their impact on advancing scientific knowledge.

As a researcher, you understand the significance of accurate and reliable results in molecular diagnostics. Streamlining your laboratory workflow while achieving precise outcomes can be complex. Fortunately, Streck offers a wide range of molecular diagnostics products designed to simplify processes and enhance the accuracy and reliability of your results. Explore how these products can revolutionize your laboratory workflow.