Polymerase Chain Reaction Process (PCR) is a technique widely used in molecular biology to produce millions of copies of a specific DNA sequence in a short period of time. PCR-based testing is used in the diagnosis of hereditary diseases; the identification of genetic fingerprints (used in forensic sciences and paternity testing); and the detection and diagnosis of infectious diseases. The vast majority of PCR methods use thermal cycling, i.e., alternately heating and cooling of the DNA sample based on a predefined series of temperature steps.

A thermal cycler is an automated instrument specifically designed for this purpose. A typical device consists of a metal block with holes where plastic vials holding the PCR reaction mixtures are inserted. The instrument has an integrated heating/cooling unit that is used to systematically raise and lower the temperature of the block. Due to their low mass, Nextreme’s thermoelectric devices are particularly well suited for rapid temperature changes while also achieving a uniform temperature distribution throughout the block, or enabling different temperatures in different parts of the block. This is particularly useful when testing suitable annealing temperatures for primers, which are required for initiation of the DNA replication sequence.

Nextreme offers several thermoelectric coolers that are capable of cooling and heating in ranges from 0.4 watts to 4 watts in an active footprint as small as 3 mm². Nextreme has successfully demonstrated short cycle time temperature control using two eTEC UPF40 thermoelectric modules. A single UPF40 module has been shown to heat and cool a 50 mg water sample between 55°C and 95°C in under 14 seconds.

Thermal cyclers with Nextreme technology inside can offer significantly shorter throughput times for DNA amplification. Precision temperature control takes the guesswork out of the traditional "trial and error" methods used in DNA amplification and reduces the need to run multiple trials to get the desired results. Nextreme technology can enable a new generation of thermal cyclers for equipment manufacturers that lower barrier-to-entry and increase opportunities for differentiation. 

DNA replication represents one of several applications of Nextreme's product line for the test and measurement and healthcare industries.

Nextreme Products for Polymerase Chain Reaction Process

UPF40 - ideal for applications with high heat-flux requirements.  More >

HV14 - a high voltage, low current thermoelectric cooler optimized for precise temperature control requirements.  More >