Accurate and sensitive somatic mutation detection powered by castPCR technology

Cancer research samples often contain rare amounts of somatic mutations within a high background of normal wild type DNA. Many mutation detection methods compatible with tumor specimens, including gene sequencing and real-time PCR, have been reported in the literature and are commercially available. However, commercially available kits have various limitations in terms of sensitivity, specificity, cost, workflow, and turnaround time. We have developed sensitive and easyto-use TaqMan Mutation Detection Assays to accurately assess mutation status. TaqMan Mutation Detection Assays were designed based on the novel competitive allele-specific TaqMan PCR (castPCR) technology, which combines allele-specific TaqMan qPCR with allele-specific MGB blocker oligonucleotides that effectively suppress nonspecific amplification from the off-target allele. Currently, the assay portfolio covers key somatic mutations identified in various cancer genes including, but not limited to, KRAS, BRAF, HRAS, NRAS, EGFR, PIK3CA, KIT, PTEN, and TP53 genes, which have been implicated in many types of cancer. These mutations were selected from the comprehensive Sanger COSMIC database for somatic mutations. The target selection was based on frequency of occurrence and input from leading cancer researchers. We will continually add more mutation assays to cover additional cancer gene mutations. For the most updated list of available assays, refer to the TaqMan Mutation Detection Assay index file at lifetechnologies.com/castpcrindexfile. • High specificity—mutant allele detection is based on an allelespecific primer, while wild type background is suppressed by the proprietary MGb blocker oligonucleotide