Product Description
| Brand |
Thermo Fisher Scientific |
| Product Type |
RNA Control |
| Pack Size |
1T |
| CAT No |
4456740 |
| Application |
Molecular Biology |
Variation in RNA expression data can be attributed to a variety of factors including the quality of the starting material, the level of cellularity and RNA yield, the platform employed, and the person performing the experiment. To control for these sources of variability, a common set of external RNA controls has been developed by the External RNA Controls Consortium (ERCC), an ad-hoc group of academic, private, and public organizations hosted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Comprehensive RNA Controls for Reliable DataThe ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix provides researchers with a consistent set of 92 synthetic transcripts spanning a wide concentration range. These spike-ins are valuable tools for normalization, performance benchmarking, and process monitoring in various gene expression assays, including qPCR, digital PCR, microarrays, and RNA sequencing. Their robust design ensures data integrity and reproducibility, minimizing technical variability across different lots and applications.
Optimized Design for Eukaryotic Transcriptome MimicryEach RNA control in the spike-in mix is polyadenylated and capped, enabling them to emulate primary eukaryotic mRNA characteristics accurately. This feature ensures compatibility with standard RNA workflows and maximizes their relevance for use as external controls, promoting confidence in experimental outcomes by closely matching the handling and detection properties of native transcripts.
User-Friendly and Flexible ApplicationSupplied as a colorless liquid in two 1.5 ml tubes, the ERCC mix is portable and easily incorporated into existing molecular biology protocols. The spike-ins can be directly added to total RNA or purified mRNA samples from diverse biological sources. Simply dilute with nuclease-free water prior to use and follow standard pipetting techniques while preparing your samples for analysis.
FAQ's of Thermo Fisher Scientific Invitrogen ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix.:
Q: How should the Invitrogen ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix be prepared and added to my experiment?
A: The ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix should be diluted with nuclease-free water according to your protocol requirements before being added to your total RNA or purified mRNA samples. It is compatible with a wide range of gene expression platforms, including RNA-Seq, qPCR, and microarray analyses. Care should be taken to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by aliquoting upon first use.
Q: What benefits do the ERCC RNA spike-in controls provide in transcriptomics?
A: The spike-ins enable normalization, performance benchmarking, and monitoring of technical variability in gene expression assays. Since each control has a well-defined concentration and mimics endogenous mRNA, they allow for absolute quantification and improved data reproducibility across experiments and between different lots.
Q: When should I use the ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix in my workflow?
A: Add the spike-ins during the initial stages of your RNA sample preparation. This ensures that the controls undergo the same processing as your experimental RNA, allowing accurate assessment of workflow performance and normalization throughout your experiment.
Q: Where can the ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix be stored and what are its stability conditions?
A: The ERCC RNA Spike-In Mix should be stored at -80C immediately upon receipt. When stored properly and handled to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, the mix is stable for at least 6 months from the date of receipt.
Q: What is the composition and measurement range of the ERCC RNA spike-ins?
A: The mix contains 92 polyadenylated and capped synthetic RNA transcripts, each at a precisely known concentration. The measurement range spans six orders of magnitude (from 1 to 10^6 molecules/l), allowing for both high and low abundance transcript detection.
Q: Are there any special handling or shipping requirements for this product?
A: The spike-in mix ships on dry ice to preserve product integrity during transit. Upon arrival, it should be promptly stored at -80C. The solution is colorless and non-hazardous, making it safe and convenient for laboratory use.