World's First Open-Source Real-Time PCR Thermocycler Launched

Priced at a tenth the cost of traditional cyclers, the low-cost qPCR thermocycler will especially benefit lesser-funded laboratories and can facilitate diagnostics in developing countries.

Chai Biotechnologies (Santa Clara, CA, USA), a biotech startup focused on making core molecular biological technologies more accessible while developing powerful tools for synthetic biologists, now offers Open qPCR—the world's first open-source real-time PCR thermocycler. The new relative quantitative PCR (qPCR) machine has now been launched via a KickStarter crowdfunding campaign.

As with real-time PCR used in diagnostic and research applications, Open qPCR is capable of genotyping, pathogen presence/absence detection, and relative DNA quantification. With its current 16-well sample capacity (100 µL or 200 µL tubes), it is primarily focused on diagnostics related applications.

The instrument is currently available for USD 1,499 as part of the campaign, and is expected to ship in March 2015. "With Real-Time PCR thermocyclers typically costing USD 20,000 and up, this technology was simply unaffordable to lesser funded university labs, institutes in developing countries dealing with emerging epidemics, and the growing DIYbio [do-it-yourself biology] maker-movement," said Josh Perfetto, founder and chief executive of Chai, "With Open qPCR, we've lowered the cost of the Real-Time PCR reaction by an order of magnitude." CEO Perfetto was also a co-creator of the earlier OpenPCR project, which made the world's first open-source endpoint PCR thermocycler available in 2011.

Features of Open qPCR include: Visual, web-based interface for protocol editing, plate layout, and results interpretation; Integrated touch screen supports field use; Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity; Open API supports automation applications; Low power mode for isothermal amplification applications; Complete hardware design and software, to be released as open source when machine ships.

The KickStarter campaign runs until December 4, 2014. The campaign is also raising funds to donate instruments to Ebola clinics in western Africa.

Related Links:
Chai Biotechnologies
Open qPCR