Nucleic-acid analysis in new fields of metrology

Abstract

Abstract. Nucleic-acid analysis (NAA) represents a key bioanalysis to which metrological approaches are applied in various fields, such as biotechnology, food safety, public health, and environmental monitoring. NAA enables detection, identification and quantification of nucleic acids of different organisms and matrices. Approaches specific for the target are most common, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis is the most frequently used technique. Other methods are being developed that intensively address specific needs. For example, digital PCR enables sensitive detection and accurate absolute quantification without comparison to reference materials, and rapid isothermal approaches provide simple target detection on-site. At the National Institute of Biology, extensive research has been carried out over the last two decades for the development and assessment of NAA techniques and their applications to different fields. Here, we present some of our experiences with the application of metrological approaches to studies of genetically modified organisms and plant pathogenic microorganisms.

Metrological framework to support accurate, reliable, and reproducible nucleic acid measurements

“…WHO is dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science leads and champions global efforts to give everyone, everywhere an equal chance to live a healthy life [12] Other relevant abbreviations CRM Certified reference material is reference material, accompanied by documentation issued by an authoritative body and providing one or more specified property values with associated uncertainties and traceabilities, using valid procedures [40] dPCR Digital polymerase chain reaction is advanced PCR enabling quantification of a specific region of a nucleic acid GMOs Genetically modified organisms are animals, plants, or microbes whose genetic material has been changed using techniques of modern biotechnology called gene technology or genetic engineering NIPT Non-invasive prenatal testing PCR Polymerase chain reaction is a common molecular biology technique used to produce multiple copies of a specific region of DNA RM Reference material is a material sufficiently homogeneous and stable with reference to specified properties, which has been established to be fit for its intended use in measurement or in examination of nominal properties [40] of the nucleic acid analysis methods, the molecules they target, and the associated challenges are agnostic to sectors in most cases. Consequently, as an international working group that focuses on nucleic acid analysis regardless of sector, the NAWG is uniquely placed to advance the measurements in one sector using knowledge from another [44]. This constitutes a firm basis for NAWG's ability to respond to challenges in the nucleic acid analysis field despite the field's rapid technological development and implementation.…”