Choosing the Right Reverse Transcriptase for Your Project

There are a lot of choices when it comes to reverse transcriptases.  Choosing the correct one for your cDNA synthesis and RT-PCR project is important.    Here are a few questions that will lead you to right RT for your application:

  1. Are you working with a template that has high secondary structure?  You may want to try Avian Myeloblastosis Virus Reverse Transcriptase (AMV RT).  AMV RT  is an RNA-directed DNA polymerase that catalyzes the polymerization of DNA using template DNA, RNA or RNA:DNA hybrids.  AMV RT is the preferred reverse transcriptase for templates with high secondary structure due to its stability at higher reaction temperatures (37–58°C).
  2. Are you doing routine RT-PCR and are looking for an economical RT?  Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus Reverse Transcriptase, RNase H Minus (M-MLV RT [H–]), Point Mutant, is an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase that can be used in cDNA synthesis and RT-PCR and performs very well with longer transcripts.
  3. Are you going to be performing RT-qPCR, working with rare or very long transcripts, or possibly working with RNA that may contain contaminating PCR inhibitors?  If the answer is yes to any of those questions, GoScript™ Reverse Transcriptase is your answer.  GoScript™ RT uses M-MLV and state-of-the-art buffer technology designed for qPCR to deliver robust, reliable cDNA synthesis of a full range of rare and abundant transcripts, even in the presence of inhibitors that may have been carried over from purification.

Check out the reverse transcriptase selector here for more information.

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