New England Biolabs (NEB), Ipswich, Mass, announced the launch of its Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR 4X Mix with UDG, which is optimized for the sensitive detection of target RNA sequences for probe-based applications, and allows for increased throughput by multiplexing up to five targets. The new master mix consolidates all essential components into a single tube for one-step RT-qPCR.

“This addition to the Luna qPCR/RT-qPCR portfolio is positioned for applications where RNA present in low abundance is of interest, such as detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Its exceptional stability at room temperature is a feature that customers setting up multiple reactions at a time, or working with automated workflows, will appreciate,” says Steven Chiu, product marketing manager, DNA Amplification, at NEB. “Additionally, the Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR Mix with UDG was designed to help increase the sensitivity of RT-qPCR experiments. It is supplied at a 4X concentration to allow for high amounts of sample input and is optimized to outperform comparable one-step RT-qPCR reagents on the market.”

The master mix contains UDG and dUTP to reduce the risk of carryover contamination between reactions. Paired together, Luna WarmStart Reverse Transcriptase and Hot Start Taq DNA Polymerase enhance performance robustness and stability, while also allowing reactions to be set up at room temperature. Also included in the mix are dNTPs, a universal passive reference dye, and Murine RNase Inhibitor in an optimized buffer.

When evaluated against a similar commercially-available one-step RT-qPCR mixes via NEB’s unique “dots in boxes” scoring method—a high-throughput data visualization tool that provides quality scores for qPCR outcomes based on efficiency, low input detection, and lack of non-template amplification—the Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR 4X Mix with UDG outperformed the competition, according to NEB.

For more details about the Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR 4X Mix with UDG, visit New England Biolabs.

Featured image: Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR 4X Mix with UDG (Courtesy: New England Biolabs)