TaqMan mutation detection assays

TaqMan mutation detection assays detect and measure somatic mutations in genes associated with cancer.

The research-only assays are based on a technology known as competitive allele-specific PCR technology, also known as castPCR technology.

The technology is highly specific and sensitive and can detect and quantitate rare quantities of mutated DNA in a sample that contains large quantities of normal, wild-type DNA.

It is sensitive enough to detect a single mutant molecule out of 1 million normal copies, a 10-fold greater sensitivity than other mutation detection assays.

The first three assays available are designed for detecting mutations in the KRAS, BRAF and EGFR genes. However, more assays are in development for many more cancer-related genes.