abstract |
There is provided a sensitive multiplex RT-PCR assay for the detection of circulating prostate antigen expressing cells. Multiplex PCR uses multiple sets of primers to concurrently amplify different DNA sequences that can be readily resolved by gel electrophoresis. When applied to blood samples from prostate cancer patients, the nested multiplex RT-PCR can simultaneously detect PSA-expressing cells, PSM-expressing cells, and a ubiquitously expressed internal PCR control gene, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), all within a single reaction. |