USA – Bio-Rad Laboratories has introduced the Vericheck ddPCR Empty-Full Capsid Kit, a new tool designed to accurately measure capsid titer, genome titer, and the ratio of full to empty capsids in AAV (adeno-associated virus) samples.
This innovative kit uses Bio-Rad’s advanced Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology to deliver precise and reproducible data from small AAV sample volumes, supporting the development of effective gene therapies.
AAV vectors are widely used in gene therapy due to their ability to deliver therapeutic genes, but the production process can result in impurities such as partial or empty capsids, which may reduce efficacy and increase immunotoxic risks.
The Vericheck ddPCR Empty-Full Capsid Kit provides researchers with a reliable way to measure these impurities, helping them ensure that AAV vectors meet quality standards.
“AAV vectors are a powerful gene therapy tool, but their production can result in the generation of product-related impurities, such as partial or empty capsids, which impact effectiveness and can elicit unwanted immunotoxicity,” said Stephen Kulisch, VP of Marketing for Bio-Rad’s Digital Biology Group.
Stephen Kulisch explained that determining the ratio of full, partial, and empty capsids is a consistent challenge throughout AAV gene therapy production stages, from early development to quality control.
He noted that Bio-Rad’s new Vericheck ddPCR Empty-Full Capsid Kit offers exceptional precision, ease of use, and high-throughput capabilities, providing a comprehensive solution to enhance AAV vector characterization and advance safe, effective gene therapies.
Supporting safer gene therapy production
Designed for use with Bio-Rad’s Droplet Digital PCR Systems, the Vericheck Kit is compatible with both crude lysate and purified AAV samples.
Its user-friendly design enables researchers to obtain detailed results without the need for extensive sample preparation, making it a practical solution for labs of all sizes.
By optimizing AAV vector characterization, the kit helps streamline gene therapy production and ensures regulatory compliance, supporting the growing demand for safe and efficient gene therapies.
The kit’s precise measurements also help researchers identify and control impurities in AAV samples, a critical step in minimizing potential immune responses and improving therapeutic outcomes.
By addressing these impurities, the Vericheck Kit contributes to safer gene therapy manufacturing and aligns with regulatory expectations for thorough vector characterization.
Cost-effective solution for accelerated gene therapy research
In addition to its precision, the Vericheck ddPCR Empty-Full Capsid Kit offers a cost-effective alternative for laboratories involved in gene therapy research and development.
By reducing the time and resources needed for AAV characterization, the kit can help accelerate gene therapy discovery and development, allowing researchers to bring safer therapies to patients more quickly.
The Vericheck ddPCR Empty-Full Capsid Kit is now available for use in laboratory settings, providing researchers with a new level of accuracy and efficiency in AAV vector characterization.