Optimising eDNA

The workhorse of our service is HT-qPCR technology, a method designed to quantify genes with both precision and efficiency. This high-throughput approach allows us to screen hundreds of targets simultaneously, detecting ARGs even at low abundance within complex environmental samples.

Unlike standard qPCR, HT-qPCR uses an array-based format that with high sensitivity and specificity is able to quantify multiple genes across hundreds of samples in parallel. This technology is particularly valuable for AMR monitoring, as it captures data at the necessary depth to track resistance gene shifts over time, revealing shifts in trends. By providing quantifiable, reproducible results, HT-qPCR gives our customers the data needed to make accurate risk assessments, contributing to an informed response to AMR in a range of settings, from wastewater to clinical environments.

Find out more about the technology at TakaraBio's website

To make the most of the data generated by HT-qPCR analysis, we use our Resistomap Platform—a cloud-based biosecurity intelligence service specifically built for tracking antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in various environments. The platform lets users visualise ARG abundances and gene copy numbers, making it easy to track how these values change over time and across locations.

With features like antibiotic resistance indexes, users can detect long-term trends that support better risk assessment and planning. The Resistomap Platform has broad applications, from monitoring public health and protecting natural environments to evaluating wastewater treatment processes. With customisable assays and the power of high-throughput qPCR, the platform provides both the precision and flexibility researchers need to dive deep into AMR dynamics, helping them analyse patterns and shifts with confidence.

Our commitment to precision begins with meticulous protocols that set the highest standards for each sample. These protocols are crafted to enhance accuracy and consistency, using automation wherever possible to ensure precise handling.

Robotics manage key tasks, such as pipetting primers and handling dilutions, so each sample is processed uniformly for highly reproducible results. Additionally, we use spectrophotometry to assess DNA quality and concentration, further supporting data reliability.

For a closer look at how these auxiliary technologies contribute to our workflow, you can find more information in the section below.