PyroMark Q96 Systems

For reagents and support of discontinued instrument PyroMark Q96 ID

S_1084_5_GEN_V2

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PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents (5 x 96)

Cat. No. / ID:  972804

For performing Pyrosequencing reactions on the PyroMark Q96 ID (5 x 96) and PyroMark Q96 MD (15 x 96).
ReagentKitAssayAccessoriesSoftware
Q96 Reagents
PyroMark Kits
Assays and Tests
Buffers
Q96 Sample Prep Thermoplate Low
Consumables
PyroMark Software
Type
Gold Q96 Reagents
Gold Q96 SQA Reagents
Gold Q96 CDT Reagents
Reactions
5 x 96
50 x 96

✓ 24/7 automatic processing of online orders

✓ Knowledgeable and professional Product & Technical Support

✓ Fast and reliable (re)-ordering

Features

Consider upgrading to the PyroMark Q48 Autoprep System for these advantages

  • Automation of the Pyrosequencing protocol
  • Longer read lengths with the Advanced chemistry
  • Compact instrument size
  • Enabled for connectivity
  • Touch screen display that guides users through the process

Product Details

The PyroMark Q96 MD has been discontinued and is no longer supported.

The PyroMark Q96 ID was discontinued in 2016 and the instrument is no longer actively sold. Existing instruments will be supported until the end of 2023. Reagents will continue to be available until the end of 2023.

To future-proof your Pyrosequencing assays, consider upgrading your work to using a PyroMark Q48 Autoprep System, which is actively sold and supported by QIAGEN.

Service Plans

Premium Cover Agreement, PyM Q96 ID

Cat. No. / ID:  9241827

1 year coverage of travel, labor, and spare parts. The instrument is repaired at the customer site with an onsite response time of 24 hours. The agreement includes a preventive maintenance/inspection visit.
Pyro Q96 ID, Full Agreement

Cat. No. / ID:  9241823

On-site PyroMark Q96 ID instrument repair, including travel, labor and parts, for a period of one year. Response time of two business days. Includes one Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service during the Full Agreement period.
Pyro Q96 ID, Preventive Subscription

Cat. No. / ID:  9243548A

One on-site Preventive Maintenance or Inspection Service visit for the PyroMark Q96 ID System, including travel, labor and parts. Includes a 10% discount on repair services during the Preventive Subscription period.

Resources

Safety Data Sheets (1)
Kit Handbooks (9)
For use with PyroMark Q48 Autoprep, PyroMark Q24 Advanced, PyroMark Q24, PyroMark Q96 ID and PyroMark Q96 MD systems
For performing Pyrosequencing reactions on the PyroMark Q96 ID, PyroMark Q96 MD, and PyroMark Q96 MD Automated
Quick-Start Protocols (1)
Instrument User Manuals (2)
Operating Software (2)
PyroMark Assay Design Software version 2.0.2 is compatible with Windows 7 and Windows 10 (64 bit) operating systems. This software may only be downloaded by registered users with a valid PyroMark Assay Design Software license. If you do not have a valid software license, contact your QIAGEN sales representative.
PyroMark Q96 ID Software 2.5
SOFTWARE (253MB)
PyroMark Q96 ID Software 2.5 version 2.5.10.7 is the application software for setting up, performing and analyzing runs on PyroMark Q96 ID instruments. The main feature of this release is 64bit compatibility with Windows 7 operating systems.

This software can only be downloaded by users with a registered PyroMark Q96 ID instrument.
Brochures & Guides (1)
Certificates of Analysis (1)

FAQ

What is the meaning of the abbreviations NDT and CDT and what are the differences?

The PyroMark Q96 MD uses the NDT and CDT to dispense nucleotides, while the Q24 and Q96 ID use cartridges.

NDT means nucleotide dispensing tip. This is the original dispensing tip which is more sensitive to dust but dispenses lower nucleotide volumes and enables longer read length.

CDT means caplillary dispensing tip and is comparable to Q24 and Q96 ID cartridges. They dispense a higher volume but are easier in handling.

The NDT and CDT use two different tip holders which cannot be interchanged

 

 

 

FAQ ID -2841
Which operating system is compatible with PyroMark IdentiFire Software?

PyroMark IdentiFire Software is compatible with Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows 7 (32 bit).

 

FAQ ID - 3340
How do I retrieve a backup copy if the data file on the USB stick cannot be opened from PyroMark Q24 or PyroMark Q24 Advanced instruments?

Do not remove the USB stick while data are being copied. Corrupted data files are usually due to the interrupted copying process. Follow these steps to retrieve recently saved runs.

 

1. When the instrument is not processing, insert a USB stick into the USB port on the instrument.

 

2. Use the Up and Down buttons to select “Administration” in the menu and press OK.

 

3. Select “Copy Recently Saved Runs” and press OK.

 

4. Use the Up and Down buttons to select the run file(s) for retrieval and press Select.

 

5. When the instrument confirms that the run file(s) has been saved to the USB stick, press Close and remove the USB stick.

 

In addition, repeat the process with a different USB stick. If the issue persists, please contact QIAGEN Technical Service for further assistance.

FAQ ID -9053
In which format can PyroMark CpG Assays be ordered?
PyroMark CpG Assay can be ordered in tubes or on 96-well plates. PyroMark CpG Assays, 96 wells, require a minimum order of 24 assays per plate.
FAQ ID -2824
Is there a user manual available for the PyroMark Assay design software?
There is no specific PyroMark Assay Design Software user manual available but a so-called Quick Guide can be downloaded from the PyroMark instrument webpage. Furthermore, the software contains a comprehensive online help (accessible via the Help menu or by pressing the “F1” key).
FAQ ID -2851
Where can I order the Streptavidin Sepharose beads for pyrosequencing?
The recommended Streptavidin Sepharose High Performance beads for pyrosequencing can be ordered at GE Healthcare with the cat. no. 17-5113-01.

The PyroMark Q48 Autoprep protocol uses magnetic streptavidin-coated Sepharose® beads (PyroMark Q48 Magnetic Beads), which bind to the biotinylated PCR strand.

PyroMark Q48 Magnetic Beads can be ordered at QIAGEN with the cat. no. 974203.

FAQ ID -2850
Can I order the nucleotides from PyroMark Gold Reagents separately?
The nucleotides can only be ordered as part of the PyroMark Gold Reagents which also contain enzyme and substrate mix.
FAQ ID -2827
Can I use the PyroMark Gold Q24 reagent on the PyroMark Q24 Advanced system or vice versa?

PyroMark Gold Q24 reagent and the PyroQ24 Advanced reagent can only be used on the intended instrument model. The chemistry in the PyroMark Q24 Advanced reagent has been improved. Using PyroMark Q24 reagent on a PyroMark Q24 Advanced instrument can lead to much lower peaks; while using PyroMark Q24 Advanced reagent on a PyroMark Q24 instrument can result in increased background and running out of enzyme and substrate prematurely.

FAQ ID -9070
How many nucleotides of a homopolymer can be resolved in pyrosequencing?
In the range of 3−5 bases can be resolved depending on the sequence context and base. If it is possible, sequencing of a homopolymer of more than 3−5 nucleotides should be avoided by resetting the sequencing primer.
FAQ ID -2871
I need to buy a new computer for my PyroMark Q96. Can I reinstall the PyroMark Q96 software on my new computer or do I need to purchase a new license?

If you need to purchase a new computer for your PyroMark Q96, or if you need to reinstall, upgrade, or replace the operating system (OS), you can reinstall the PyroMark Q96 software without purchasing a new license.

FAQ ID - 3472
What is a PyroMark instrument method or instrument code?

An instrument method or instrument code encodes the individual pulse time settings of specific cartridge lot batch. These pulse time settings change when, for example, a new batch of capillaries is used with slight variations in the needle diameter. For larger diameters, the pulse settings are lowered to dispense the correct volume of liquid. In addition, the viscosity of enzyme and substrate mixes can change, which influences dispensing volumes.

The individual instrument method/code number is printed on the cartridge label. The corresponding methods/code settings can be downloaded as a file from the respective instrument webpage and opened in the PyroMark application software.

FAQ ID -2941
What is the reason for a high substrate peak in the pyrosequencing pyrogram?
Usually pyrophosphate or dATP/ATP contamination in the sample or in the buffer can cause a high substrate peak. Large amounts of pyrophosphate are generated in the PCR reaction and might be carried over to the sequencing reaction. Check the PyroMark buffers and reagents and use new ones.
FAQ ID -2879
Can I run multiple types of assays in one run?

Yes. The PyroMark Q24, PyroMark Q24 Advanced, and PyroMark Q96 v2.5 software provide multiple types of assay modes, which enable analyzing different types of samples at the same time.

FAQ ID -9057
How do I validate a new Pyrosequencing assay?

All new assays have to be validated by the user. Interaction between primers or loops formed on single-strangled DNA can serve as priming sites for base incorporation by DNA polymerase. The following controls should be included when an assay is analyzed for the first time:

 

 1. PCR without template DNA —shows if the primers interact to give a background signal in Pyrosequencing reactions

 

2. PCR with template DNA but with no sequencing primer — shows if the template can loop back on itself and give a background signal in Pyrosequencing reactions

 

3. Sequencing primer without any PCR product — shows if the sequencing primer can form duplexes or hairpins and give background signal in Pyrosequencing reactions

 

4. Biotinylated primer without any PCR product — shows if the biotinylated primer can form duplexes or hairpins and give background signal in Pyrosequencing reactions

 

5. Sequencing primer and biotinylated primer together without PCR product —shows if the sequencing primer and the biotinylated primer can form duplexes and give background signal in Pyrosequencing reactions

 

Programs from these controls ought not to show any significant peaks after any nucleotide addition.

FAQ ID -9066
Does the PyroMark Assay Design or application software give any cycling conditions for individual assay primers or a PCR setup pipetting scheme?
The PyroMark Assay Design and application software do not support PCR setup with a pipetting scheme or PCR cycling conditions. General recommendations on how to setup and optimization of the PCR reaction are contained in the PyroMark PCR Handbook.
FAQ ID -2862
How-can-the-histogram-help-trouble-shooting-a-Pyrosequencing-run?

The histogram is the theoretical peak pattern based on the Sequence to Analyze that you enter into the software, while the pyrogram is the experimental peak pattern that is detected by PyroMark instruments. The peak pattern in the pyrogram has to be in agreement with that in the histogram for a successful run. Overlaying the histogram on the pyrogram provides an invaluable tool for trouble-shooting Pyrosequencing runs. To do so, right click anywhere on the pyrogram and select Show Histogram on the pop-up menu.

FAQ ID -9056
Which end of the PCR primer for pyrosequencing should be biotinylated?
In pyrosequencing, the 5' end should be biotinylated, regardless of whether the forward or reverse primer is biotinylated.
FAQ ID -2839
How many times can the CDTs, NDTs, and RDTs be used?
The PyroMark Q96 MD HS Capillary Tip and HS Reagent Tip  can be used up to 20 times and the PyroMark Q96 HS Nucleotide Tip up to 10 times.
FAQ ID -2865
What kind of shaker should be used for the pyrosequencing binding step?
Shaking conditions are 1400 rpm at room temperature. Optimal results are obtained with 2 mm orbital diameter.
FAQ ID -2837
Which analyses can be performed with the PyroMark Q96 ID software version 1.0?
The PyroMark Q96 ID software version 1.0 contains a SNP mode for simplex and multiplex entries (and Allele Quantification analyses can be performed for simplex entries) and an SQA mode for de novo sequencing analysis. This software version does not contain a CpG mode for methylation analysis, however the PyroMark CpG software v1.0 can be used.
FAQ ID -2845
How many times can the cartridges for PyroMark Q24 or PyroMark Q96 ID instruments be reused?
When cleaning and storing the cartridges properly, the Q24 cartridge can be used up to 30 times and Q96 ID cartridge up to 20 times. The cartridge product sheet and PyroMark Q24/ID user manual contain guidelines how to clean the cartridges correctly.
FAQ ID -2863
What should be the single peak height for the PyroMark Control Oligo on the different PyroMark instruments?

PyroMark Q24: The mean single peak height is 95 +/- 55 RLU.
PyroMark Q48: The mean single peak height is 70 +/- 40 RLU.
PyroMark Q96 ID: The mean single peak height is 35 +/- 10 RLU.
Pyromark Q96 MD: The mean single peak height should be at least 350 RLU.

FAQ ID -2852
Does the PyroMark CpG LINE assay target mouse transposons as well?

The PyroMark CpG LINE-1 assay is specific for human DNA and was not tested on mouse DNA.  Mouse LINE-1 elements differ slightly in sequence and may not be detected.

 

 

-1
What causes peaks to appear between dispensations on the pyrogram?

This can result from very high signal in a well which results in cross-talk between neighbouring wells. It could also be that the PyroMark instrument's camera is misaligned (contact: QIAGEN Technical service).

FAQ ID -9060
Which analyses can be performed with the PyroMark Q96 MD software?

The PyroMark Q96 MD software contains a SNP mode for simplex and multiplex entries (and Allele Quantification analyses can be performed for simplex entries). This software version does not contain a CpG mode for methylation analysis, however the PyroMark CpG software v1.0 can be used. SQA analysis for de novo sequencing is not possible. 

See our Product Selection Guide for additional information on CpG supplementary software.

FAQ ID -2866
Can the PyroMark Q96 CpG LINE assay be used with an ID system?
The PyroMark Q96 CpG LINE-1 assay can only be used with a PyroMark Q96 MD system because the PyroMark Q96 ID instrument does not have a camera that is sensitive enough. For the PyroMark Q24, there is a dedicated PyroMark Q24 LINE-1 assay.
2861
What is included in a PyroMark Custom Assay?
The PyroMark Custom Assay includes a 10x PCR Primer Set (mixture of forward and reverse PCR Primer) and 10x Sequencing Primer. Reagents for performing PCR and pyrosequencing reaction are not included.
FAQ ID -2815
What are the features of PyroMark CpG Assays, for example, in terms of design and validation?
PyroMark CpG Assays are genome-wide, pre-designed methylation assays for pyrosequencing analysis. An optimized design algorithm was used for highly specific assay design and advanced CpG methalytion results.
FAQ ID -2821
What is the sensitivity limitation for pyrosequencing?
In general, the standard claim for pyrosequencing sensitivity is approximately 5%, which is also published in many papers. The actual sensitivity limit is assay dependent and has to be determined individually.
FAQ ID -2840
Which kits can be used in combination with the PyroMark CpG Assays and PyroMark Custom Assays?
QIAamp/DNeasy Kits can be used for DNA isolation, EpiTect Bisulfite Kits for DNA conversion, PyroMark PCR Kit for PCR amplification, EpiTect Control DNA Set for PCR controls, and PyroMark Gold Q24 Reagents or PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents for the sequencing reaction.

Depending on the platform used, the following reagent kits are required for pyrosequencing:

FAQ ID -2822
How can I rescue a run due to my mistake or instrument failure?

In the case of mistakes and instrument failure, the single stranded DNA can be re-used without re-run PCR. Perform the vacuum prep steps with the streptavidin beads and release them to a new Pyrosequencing plate for a fresh run.

FAQ ID -9063
When do I have to change the pulse settings/methods in a pyrosequencing run setup?
Always check for the actual method/code number printed on the cartridge label. Make sure that you choose this method/code number when setting up the pyrorun in the application software. If this method cannot be selected automatically in the application software, you can download the method/code file from the instrument webpage.
FAQ ID -2942
What ought I do if mutation assays designed by QIAGEN fail?

Mutation assays designed  by QIAGEN detect the most common mutations. In addition, QIAGEN provides plug-ins to analyze more mutations and convenient reports for PyroMark KRAS, PyroMark EGFR, and PyroMark BRAF kits. The plug-ins can be obtained by emailing pyro.plugin@qiagen.com

 

If the mutation cannot be analyzed successfully, please send the original run files to QIAGEN Technical Service for further assistance.

FAQ ID -9065
Which PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagent should be used for which instrument and application?

PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents:

  • PyroMark Gold Q96 SQA Reagents (1 x 96) should be used for performing SQA analyses on the PyroMark Q96 ID. It can also be used to supplement the PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents (5 x 96) when long runs lead to a shortage of nucleotides.
  • PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents (5 x 96) should be used for SNP and CpG analyses on the PyroMark Q96 ID and MD instruments. On the PyroMark Q96 MD, the kit contains enough for 15x96 plates.
  • PyroMark Gold Q96 CDT Reagents (6 x 96) should be used only with CDTs on the PyroMark Q96 MD instrument, for performing SNP and CpG anslyses. The nucleotides are pre-diluted for use with CDTs, so this is not to be used on ID instrument or with NDTs on the MD.
  • PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents (50 x 96) should be used only with the PyroMark Q96 MDA (automated option) for SNP anslyses. Not for use with the PyroMark Q96 ID or non-automated MD.

See the PyroMark Gold Q96 Reagents Handbook for additional information.

FAQ ID -2836
How do I reduce background peaks in the pyrosequencing pyrogram?
There are several reasons for a high assay background; the template can form secondary structures that are extended or the primers itself form dimmers that serve as template. Perform accurate sequencing controls (e.g., PCR or sequencing primer only) as recommended in the PyroMark User Manual to observe this kind of background. In addition, an unspecific priming of primer to template or unspecific annealing of sequencing primer to template might also be a background cause. Please check your complete primer design and, if needed, perform a redesign. Try to lower the primer concentration as possible to avoid excess of primer.
FAQ ID -2877
What is the sample throughput of pyrosequencing systems?

PyroMark instruments offer a range of throughput scales. The PyroMark Q24 can process 1–24 samples in parallel, the PyroMark Q48 Autoprep, 1–48; the PyroMark Q96 ID, 1–96; and the PyroMark Q96 MD, 1–96; or the automation option enables automated processing of ten 96-well plates. The sample processing speed depends on the number of nucleotide dispensations necessary for the programmed analysis. Twenty dispensations take approximately 24 minutes on all instruments; thus, 96 samples are typically processed in 10–100 minutes.

 

 

FAQ ID -2215
What is the concentration of PyroMark Control Oligo?
PyroMark Control Oligo has a concentration of 20 µM and is delivered in a volume of 50 µl. Two tubes of 10x dilution buffer (2x 1.7 ml) are delivered with the control oligo.
FAQ ID -2846
How are the PyroMark CpG Assays shipped and stored?
PyroMark CpG Assays are shipped lyophilized at ambient temperatures (20−25°C) and should be stored at −20°C either reconstituted or lyophilized. Repeated freeze−thaw cycles should be avoided. When stored under these conditions, the reconstituted product can be kept for at least 18 months from the date of receipt without reduction in performance.
FAQ ID -2816
How are the PyroMark CpG Assays reconstituted?
The PyroMark CpG Assay is reconstituted as a 10x PCR Primer Set in 550 µl TE, pH 8.0 and the 10x Sequencing Primer is reconstituted in 1175 µl Annealing Buffer if using the PyroMark Q24, 880 µl if using the PyroMark Q96 ID, and 1175 µl if using the PyroMark Q96 MD.
FAQ ID -2817
How many times can vacuum troughs be reused with the PyroMark Vacuum Preparation Stations?
There is no precise recommendation how many times these troughs on the PyroMark Vacuum Preparation Stations (Q24 and Q96) can be reused. It depends on the individual handling and cleaning (with water).
FAQ ID -2848
How do I analyze unexpected mutations?

Pyrosequencing assay can detect unexpected/unknown mutations. Modify the Sequence to Analyze to analyze unexpected/unknown mutations. See How can I modify the Sequnce to Analyze post a run.

                          

If the mutation cannot be analyzed successfully, please send the original run files to QIAGEN Technical Service for further assistance.

FAQ ID -9064
Which heating block is recommended for the pyrosequencing annealing step?
A heating block that can heat up to 80−90°C is recommended. A solid block is preferable. For the PyroMark Q24 the surface area must be 50 mm x 60 mm and for PyroMark Q96 ID/MD 120 mm x 80 mm.
FAQ ID -2838
What are the operating system and hardware requirements for PyroMark software?
What concentration should be used for the sequencing primer in pyrosequencing?

Usually the sequencing primer is used at 0.3 µM in annealing buffer but some assays might require additional optimization of the sequencing primer concentration.

For PyroMark Q24 and PyroMark Q96 MD, the final concentration of the sequencing primer is 0.3 µM and, for PyroMark Q96 ID, 0.4 µM.

The PyroMark Q48 Autoprep dispenses the sequencing primers for annealing. The final concentration of sequencing primers in a well is 0.8 µM but may be adapted to optimize assays.

 

FAQ ID -2826
What causes low peak signals in Pyrosequencing?

Insufficient amount of PCR template, loss of streptavidin bead during vacuum prep steps, incorrect instrument method, and incorrect reagent are the common causes of low peak signals.

 

Check the PCR product with QIAxcel instrument or agarose gel electrophoresis and determine the appropriate amount of PCR product to be used. Perform vacuum prep function test. Determine the vacuum prep station functionality using the PyroMark Control Oligo with and without the vacuum prep steps. Ensure the correct instrument method is used. Refer to Managing PyroMark Instrument Methods. Ensure the correct reagent is used for the specific instrument model.

FAQ ID -9069
Does QIAGEN offer a design of Custom PyroMark CpG Assays?
No, QIAGEN does not design any Custom PyroMark CpG Assay. Customers have the possibility to order pre-designed, genome-wide PyroMark CpG Assays or order a user-designed assay (e.g., with the PyroMark Assay Design Software or assays known from previous projects or from the literature).
FAQ ID -2818
What are the changes of PyroMark Assay Design Software Version 2.0 compared to 1.0?
The new PyroMark Assay Design Software Version 2.0 contains new algorithms to facilitate CpG assay design and enables PCR and sequencing primer design for all pyroseqeuncing applications and PyroMark instruments.
FAQ ID -2849
Where can I find explanations to the warning given by the PyroMark software after run data analysis?
The PyroMark Q24 application software a PyroMark Q24 Software user guide with all essential information about warnings and software features, which can be found contains under Help (press F1). The Pyromark ID/MD software also contains a software guide under Help. Moreover, the individual instrument user manuals contain helpful information in the troubleshooting section.
FAQ ID -2874
Will the primer sequence for the PyroMark CpG Assay be provided?
Primer sequences for PyroMark CpG Assays are not provided; they are proprietary.
FAQ ID -2823
Why must I update the instrument method when lot numbers of the cartridge/tips change?

PyroMark instruments dispense the correct volume of enzyme mix, substrate mix, and nucleotides using variable pulse times and dispensing pressures. The settings for pulse times and dispensing pressure are specific for each lot of PyroMark dispensing tips and cartridges and need to be updated in the PyroMark software being used to operate the instrument.

 

Dispensing pressures and pulse time settings must be checked and, if necessary, updated every time a cartridge from a new lot number is used. Check the details at Managing PyroMark Instrument Methods.

FAQ ID -9055
What can I expect for the reading length on various PyroMark Instruments
Which purity grade is recommended for pyrosequencing primers?
Only the biotinylated primer needs to be HPLC purified, whereas the other primers require standard desalting only.
FAQ ID -2832
What is the reason for split peaks appearing in between dispensations on my pyrosequencing pyrogram?
The PyroMark cartridge needle can be blocked or damaged. Clean the cartridge or exchange with a new one. Check for correct reagent cartridge and cartridge method used in the run. Check if the reagent cartridge cover was closed properly. Make sure that the cartridge was dry after cleaning because nucleotide droplets might be caught at the needle tip and might fall down at any time, or exchanged.
FAQ ID -2881
Will dUTP in a PCR reaction affect pyrosequencing?
In general, dUTP/UNG treatment should work for pyrosequencing to reduce contamination risk with PCR amplicons from previous PCRs.
FAQ ID -2843
Is the CpG software included in the PyroMark instruments to study methylation status?
The PyroMark Q24 software and the new PyroMark Q96 ID software version 2.5 support CpG analysis in the CpG mode. The ORACLE-based PyroMark Q96 ID software version and PyroMark Q96 MD software do not support CpG analysis. In this case, an independent, additional software is needed which is the PyroMark CpG software version 1.0.
FAQ ID -2842
What causes wide peaks?

Sodium hydroxide carry-over, too much template, and incorrectly stored reagent are the most common causes of wide peaks. Ensure correct volume of denaturation buffer is used on the vacuum prep station. Use 5–20 µl of PCR product depending on instrument models. Store reagent as described in the handbook.

 

If the issue persists, please send the run files (see Instruction for run file export) to QIAGEN Technical Service for further assistance.

FAQ ID -9062
What data are required for trouble-shooting?

For PyroMark Q24, PyroMark Q24 Advanced, PyroMark Q96 ID v2.5, and PyroMark CpG software, data are file-based. The original run files can be attached to email and sent to QIAGEN Technical Service.

 

For PyroMark Q96 ID 1.0, PyroMark Q96 MD/MDA 1.0, PSQ MA, and PSQ HS/HSA software, data are stored in an Oracle database and need exporting (See Instruction for run file export). Exported data can be attached to email and sent to QIAGEN Technical Service.

 

The log files from the PyroMark Q96 ID, PyroMark Q96 MD/MDA, PSQ MA, and PSQ HS/HSA instruments provide valuable information. See Instruction for log file retrieval) for log file retrieval instruction

 

Please send the log file along with the original run file to QIAGEN Technical Service.

FAQ ID -9051
What is a single peak height? What are the optimal single peak heights on various PyroMark instruments?

A single peak height is the signal produced from a non-variable single nucleotide.  The single peak height is an important criterion for trouble-shooting.

 

The optimal single peak height is 30 RLU (minimum 20 RLU) (Relative Light Unit) for PyroMark Q24 and PyroMark Q24 Advanced, 20 RLU (minimum 10 RLU) for PyroMark Q96 ID, and 100 RLU (minimum 50 RLU) for PyroMark Q96 MD instrument, respectively.

FAQ ID -9058
How many CpG sites are analyzed by the PyroMark CpG LINE assay?
The PyroMark Q24 LINE-1 assay covers three CpG sites, and the LINE-1 assay for PyroMark Q96 MD covers four sites.
2858
What is the purpose of the unmethylated and unconverted control DNA of the EpiTect PCR Control DNA Set?

The unmethylated and unconverted human control DNA of the EpiTect PCR Control DNA Set allows to check that primers designed for the specific detection of unmethylated and converted DNA (U-converted DNA), and for methylated, converted DNA (M-converted DNA) does not bind to untreated genomic DNA.*

In case bisulfite conversion was not complete, leaving certain unmethylated C residues unconverted, false positives would result if the primer specific for M-converted DNA binds to untreated gDNA.

This control DNA can also be used to check conversion efficiency during bisulfite treatment.

 

*Summary of principle: Methylation of DNA occurs on cytosine residues, especially on CpG dinucleotides enriched in small regions of DNA. Incubation of target DNA with sodium bisulfite, using, for example, EpiTect Bisulfite Kits, results in conversion of unmethylated cytosine residues into uracil, leaving methylated cytosines unchanged.

 

FAQ ID -2007
Can I install the PyroMark Q96 ID 1.0, PyroMark Q96 MD/MDA 1.0, PSQ MA, and PSQ HS/HSA software on an office computer for data analysis?

The PyroMark Q96 ID 1.0, PyroMark Q96 MD/MDA 1.0, PSQ MA, and PSQ HS/HSA software requires a functional Oracle database, which cannot be installed on an office computer. You can install the PyroMark software on an office computer and access the Oracle database on the PyroMark operator’s computer via network. The operator’s computer needs to be powered on while you are accessing the Oracle database remotely. Your IT department is responsible for the network setup.

 

FAQ ID -9059
What is the reason for signals ceasing in the middle of a pyrosequencing run?
The cartridge needle can be blocked or damaged, causing a dispensation error. Clean the cartridge following the guidelines or repeat the run with a new cartridge. On the other hand, if high amounts of template have been used resulting in very high signals (>100 RLU), the substrate for the sequencing reaction might be depleted. In this case, template conditions should be optimized.
FAQ ID -2875
What kind of reading length can I expect when using pyrosequencing technology for sequence analysis?

Typical reading length using pyrosequencing technology is 40−60 bases. However, as with any sequencing technology, the maximum read length will depend on template secondary structure, base content, quality of PCR-product, and other parameters.

Depending on the sequence to be analyzed, highly accurate read lengths of 140 bases or more can be obtained in just a single reaction with the Q48 PyroMark Autoprep.

 

 

FAQ ID -2216
What is the recommended amplicon size for CpG assays?
The amplicon length should be short (<200 bp). This is critical especially for DNA from FFPE tissue that is often degraded by the fixation so that short fragments are easier to amplify. Moreover, the DNA suffers from harsh bisulfite treatment and might receive further double strand breaks. Therefore, the amplicon size should be kept as short as possible.
FAQ ID -2825
Can unused wells in a pyrosequencing plate be used in the next run?
In principle, it is possible to use so far unused pyrosequencing wells for the next run and leave the wells that are already used empty. However, due to contamination risk when cleaning and handling plates, QIAGEN does not recommend this.
FAQ ID -2872
Can PyroMark Gold reagents be vortexed?
Reconstiuted enzyme and substrate of PyroMark Gold Reagents, should not be vortexed since this could lead to conformational changes which affect the activity.
FAQ ID -2844
How do I set up a PyroMark CpG Assay?
All relevant information regarding PyroMark CpG Assay setup can be found on the GeneGlobe website. For the Q24 and Q96, the "Sequence to Analyze" and dispensation order should not be copied manually to create a new assay. Instead, the assay file should be downloaded from the web and opened in the PyroMark CpG softwarePyroMark Q96  ID v2.5 (or higher) software, and PyroMark Q24 Software to keep important software settings.

When using the PyroMark CpG assays with the PyroMark Q48, use the "Sequence to Analyze" provided in the "product specification" section to create an assay setup file in the PyroMark Q48 software. This is done by selecting New CpG assay and pasting in the Sequence to Analyze (not the "sequence after bisulfite treatment") into the Sequence Before Bisulfite Treatment field and pressing Create Dispensation order.
FAQ ID -2814
How do I prevent a drifting baseline in my pyrosequencing pyrogram? If this method cannot be selected automatically in the application software, you can download the method/code file from the instrument webpage.
Let the PyroMark instrument warm up (approx. 60 min) to adapt to room temperature before use. Make sure the ambient room temperature is within range 18−28°C.
FAQ ID -2878