A wide variety of DNA and RNA isolation techniques are now being used

Wednesday 9 October 2013, London

Methods used to isolate DNA and RNA are fundamental to most studies carried out in the molecular biology field. These molecules are isolated prior to downstream processing for a wide range of applications, from fundamental research to routine diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making. In the past, methods used to extract nucleic acids were often complex, time-consuming, labour-intensive and limited in throughput. Today, many specialized methods are available to scientists, from conventional solution-based approaches, to solid-phase systems that are often used in commercial kits.

Developments in this field are allowing scientists to evaluate new techniques in their own areas of application. Some of these are also amenable to automation, an increasing requirement in many of today’s laboratories. Our research team has carried out a global market study of DNA and RNA isolation techniques involving the participation of 227 experienced end-users in this field. Participants mean 'years of experience' in the use of DNA and RNA isolation techniques was 14.4 years and the findings of this study provide a wealth of information relevant to suppliers in this field. In particular, these findings relate to end-users current and three-year plans, as well as their anticipated purchasing decisions from particular suppliers over the next three years (2013 - 2016).

This study was carried out to provide business information to developers, manufacturers and suppliers in the DNA/RNA extraction/isolation field. Its findings identify marketing and sales opportunities, end-user purchasing decisions, market growth and shrinkage and related information. It was conducted through specialist groups of experienced end-users in the DNA/RNA extraction/isolation field and its findings are therefore based on 'real world' market data.

DNA RNA 2013 presented more than 40 specialised technical/market questions relating to the isolation or extraction of DNA and RNA, and was designed for scientists or managers who use these techniques in their everyday activities, but excluded commercial developers and vendors.