Comparison of Real-Time PCR and Digital PCR for Detection of Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus DNA in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) DNA is an established biomarker for endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, existing real-time PCR (qPCR) assays are limited by poor inter-laboratory reproducibility. This is a barrier to biomarker integration into staging systems and management.It was hypothesized that EBV digital PCR (dPCR) would have similar sensitivity but improved precision relative to qPCR. Using the WHO EBV standard and patient specimens, the NRG BamHI-W qPCR, two commercial EBNA-1 qPCR assays, and two laboratory-developed dPCR assays amplifying the BamHI-W, EBNA-1, and EBER targets were compared.
Source: Journal of Molecular Diagnostics - Category: Pathology Authors: Tags: Regular Article Source Type: research