Droplet digital PCR for quantitation of extracellular RNA

Abstract

Cell-to-cell communication involves the release of biological molecules into the extracellular space and their uptake by recipient cells. These molecules include RNA that, can modulate cellular signaling and biological processes. To study extracellular RNA, highly sensitive and precise methods, for their detection are needed. Digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) can be a useful method for detecting and analyzing extracellular RNA. The sensitivity of digital PCR can exceed that of quantitative PCR for low abundance targets such as extracellular RNA.