Is qPCR for you? Optimizing the use of qPCR (20m Lecture)

There is a wide range of fungal sampling and analysis methods to choose from, all of which have their advantages and disadvantages. When formulating a sampling strategy many factors need to be considered, including sampling and analysis time, cost, information required and interpretation of results. Choosing the best method(s) prior to sampling in order to optimize your results is essential. Traditional viable and non-viable methods of fungal identification rely on direct microscopic examination. Nonviable analysis has rapid turn around times but identification is limited. Viable analysis provides detailed information but not all fungi may be accounted for and turn around times are prolonged. An alternative to traditional microscope-based mycology is quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) where molds in both air and bulk samples can be rapidly speciated and quantified. qPCR analysis has an instrument perform the identification and quantitation of the mold. Data is derived faster and can be more accurate with qPCR than with conventional culture-based methods. qPCR is not appropriate for every situation but it may be utilized alone or in combination with other available methodologies. This paper addresses situations where it may be advantageous to incorporate qPCR into your sampling strategy.