Quantitative assay of total dsDNA with PicoGreen reagent and real-time fluorescent detection

Ann Ist Super Sanita. 2005;41(1):119-23.

Abstract

We describe a quantitative assay of dsDNA based on real-time PCR measurement of fluorescence due to the interaction of PicoGreen dye with dsDNA. An aliquot of 1 to 5 ml of the sample is mixed with 45 ml of diluted PicoGreen reagent within an optical PCR tube. This is placed into the real-time apparatus set to read SYBR Green I dye at the end of three cycles of 94 degrees C for 30 s and 65 degrees C for 30 s. The averaged fluorescence value is converted into DNA amount using a calibration curve prepared with lambda-DNA standard. The calibration curve has a dynamic linear range from 0.20 to 50 ng and a standard deviation variability below 5.0%. In conclusion, this method allows reliable determinations on minimal amounts of DNA from biological samples and PCR products in clinical applications of molecular biology.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriophage lambda / genetics
  • Calibration
  • Computer Systems*
  • DNA / analysis*
  • DNA / isolation & purification
  • DNA, Viral / analysis
  • Exons / genetics
  • Fluorescent Dyes / analysis*
  • Fluorometry / methods*
  • Fluorometry / standards
  • Humans
  • Organic Chemicals
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic
  • Receptors, LDL / genetics
  • Reference Standards
  • Temperature

Substances

  • DNA, Viral
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Organic Chemicals
  • PicoGreen
  • Reagent Kits, Diagnostic
  • Receptors, LDL
  • DNA