In the detection of new coronavirus , nucleic acid detection is currently a reliable screening and confirmation method, and it is also widely used. Among the nucleic acid detection methods, the PCR instrument is undoubtedly the key tool for the detection of this epidemic. However, the nucleic acid detection process is easily contaminated, and the entire operation needs to be carried out in a strict experimental environment to ensure the accuracy of the data results, and not to miss or mistakenly detect suspected cases.

So the question is, how to build a standard PCR laboratory in nucleic acid testing? How to design and plan a PCR laboratory to be professional? What are the key points for PCR laboratory management?

A standard PCR laboratory is divided into four areas, namely:

n1. Reagent preparation area;

n2. Sample processing area;

n3. Nucleic acid amplification region;

n4. Product analysis area;

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PCR laboratory design planning

If a fully automatic analyzer is used, the regions can be merged appropriately.

(Entering each work area should be carried out strictly in a single direction. Different work areas use different work clothes, such as different colors. When the staff leaves each work area, they must not take the work clothes out.)

PCR laboratory floor plan

【The functions of each area are as follows】

Reagent preparation area: preparation, dispensing and storage of amplification reagents.     

Sample processing area: sample registration, sub-packaging; nucleic acid extraction, preservation and sample loading.   

Amplification product analysis area: determination, result analysis, registration and reporting of amplification products.  

The pre-amplification area and the post-amplification area should be strictly separated, different rooms must be used, and there is a certain interval between the two areas.  

Small quantities of reagents can be prepared in the sample processing area using commercially available kits.     

The sample processing area and the reagent preparation area can be located in the same room provided the following operating and cleaning requirements are met:   

Operate in a biological safety cabinet;     

Each experimenter and experimental group use their own reagents and consumables;   

Vessels containing contaminated materials are sealed and single-use;  

Use effective methods to clean and disinfect the operating area and shared utensils before and after the experiment.