PCR labs can be distributed or combined. To complete a set of PCR experiments, usually four experimental processes, reagent preparation, sample processing, nucleic acid amplification and product analysis, should be carried out. If the experimental process requires, the sample crushing process should be added.

1. Decentralized PCR laboratory

The so-called decentralized PCR laboratory means that the experimental rooms for completing the above experimental process are far away from each other and are distributed in a distributed form. For a PCR laboratory in this arrangement, no special conditions are required because each experiment is not likely to interfere with each other.

2. Combined PCR laboratory

The so-called combined PCR laboratory refers to the form in which the experimental rooms that complete the four experimental processes of PCR are arranged adjacent to each other to form an independent experimental area. For a combined PCR laboratory, due to the centralized arrangement of each experiment, it is easy to cause mutual interference. Therefore, there are certain requirements for the overall layout and barrier system. Each chamber is equipped with a buffer room at the entrance to reduce the exchange of indoor and outdoor air.

Main equipment of PCR laboratory

Reagent preparation area

Instruments and equipment mainly include refrigerators, ultra-clean benches, sample dispensers, mixers, balances and centrifuges, etc. In addition to special use of sample dispensers and balances, they should also be calibrated regularly. The reagents should be packaged in a clean bench. The amplification reaction mixture should be of molecular biology grade. After the reagents are prepared, there should be quality inspections: first, whether there is contamination, and second, to detect the amplification effect of the reagents.

Specimen preparation area

Instruments and equipment mainly include biological safety cabinets, sample dispensers, centrifuges, incubators, mixers, etc.  

Amplified region

The main instruments in the amplification area are nucleic acid amplification instruments, ultra-clean benches, micro-samplers, centrifuges, and movable UV lamps. The thermal cycler needs to be calibrated. And equipped with UPS power supply to prevent the impact of power outage on the amplification effect due to voltage fluctuations.

Analysis area

The instruments and equipment used in this area include microplate readers, plate washers, sample dispensers and water baths. The area of the buffer room in the clean experimental area cannot exceed one-eighth of the main laboratory, which is stipulated.