Bio-Rad iQ5

The Bio-Rad iQ5 is a real-time PCR detection system designed for precise and efficient quantification of DNA and RNA targets. Building upon the legacy of Bio-Rad's iCycler iQ and MyiQ systems, this instrument integrates seamlessly with the iCycler thermal cycler, featuring a 96-well reaction block. Its advanced optical system supports multiplex PCR, enabling simultaneous analysis of up to five targets, thereby conserving valuable samples and reagents.

Key features include:

• Multiplexing capability: Detects up to five fluorophores per reaction vessel, facilitating comprehensive analyses.
• Thermal gradient functionality: Allows rapid assay optimization by enabling different temperatures across the reaction block.
• Intuitive software: Simplifies protocol setup and data analysis, reducing time to results.
• Diverse data analysis options: Provides comprehensive views of assay outcomes with various presentation formats.
• Advanced gene expression analysis: Offers publication-quality statistics and graphs for relative quantitation studies.
• Flexible allelic discrimination module: Facilitates automatic sample identification in genotyping experiments.
• End-point fluorescence analysis tools: Enable qualitative assessment of sample abundance in single- or multicolor assays.
• Reliable thermal cycling performance: Delivered by the robust iCycler thermal cycler.

This system is widely applied in fields such as molecular biology, genetics, and biomedical research, supporting applications like gene expression analysis, genotyping, and pathogen detection. It is commonly utilized in university laboratories, biomedical research centres, and clinical diagnostics facilities. Introduced in the mid-2000s, the iQ5 remains relevant, with refurbished units still in use today.