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Influence of stochastics on quantitative PCR in the detection of minimal residual disease

Leukemia volume 17, pages 2527–2528 (2003)Cite this article

TO THE EDITOR

Using quantitative RT-PCR techniques, high sensitivity and precision are crucial for correct detection of low transcript levels, for example, in the evaluation of minimal residual disease (MRD). From a primary view, the greater number of PCR cycles in a nested competitive PCR assay may provide improved sensitivity of this approach when compared to real-time RT-PCR like Taqman (usually 65–75 vs 40 cycles). The very interesting results of Guo et al1 support this impression and clearly underscore the clinical importance of a carefully designed RT-PCR method for the detection of low transcript levels.

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany

    D Rawer & J Kreuder

  2. Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany

    A Borkhardt & M Wilda

  3. Department of Medical Statistics, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany

    S Kropf

Authors
  1. D Rawer
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  2. A Borkhardt
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  3. M Wilda
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  4. S Kropf
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  5. J Kreuder
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Correspondence to J Kreuder.

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Rawer, D., Borkhardt, A., Wilda, M. et al. Influence of stochastics on quantitative PCR in the detection of minimal residual disease. Leukemia 17, 2527–2528 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.leu.2403191

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.leu.2403191

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