RNA quantitation is critical for molecular biology protocols (RT-PCR, library prep), with fluorescence-based detection being the most sensitive and accurate method for IVT RNA—relying on dyes that boost quantum yield when bound to nucleic acids. Creative Biolabs' Custom RNA Fluorescence Assay Service offers sensitive, high-throughput dye-based quantitation/stability testing, providing specific, reproducible RNA data to de-risk drug discovery and overcome traditional UV absorbance's contaminant interference.
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The RNA Fluorescence Assay leverages the principles of selective dye binding. Unlike UV absorbance, which measures all chromophores at 260 nm, our assay uses proprietary or industry-standard dyes (such as RiboGreen or PicoGreen) whose fluorescence signal is intensely amplified upon intercalation into single or double-stranded RNA structures. The unbound dye remains virtually non-fluorescent, providing extremely high signal-to-noise ratios.
Our services are critically applied across the entire spectrum of RNA-based research and development:
Our comprehensive workflow is designed for maximum clarity, speed, and reliability, ensuring a clear path to high-quality results for your critical RNA projects.
| Stage | Activity Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scoping & Design | Creative Biolabs scientists consult with the client to define the target molecule (mRNA, lncRNA, etc.) and required assay sensitivity (e.g., PicoGreen, RiboGreen, or custom dye). |
| Sample Submission & QC | Client submits the required materials, including purified RNA or complex formulated samples (e.g., LNP-mRNA, cell lysates). Our team performs an initial quality check (e.g., basic gel electrophoresis). |
| Fluorescence Assay Execution | Samples are diluted and mixed with the chosen fluorescent dye (which exhibits enhanced fluorescence upon binding nucleic acids) and measured in a fluorometer or microplate reader. Standard curves are meticulously generated. |
| Data Analysis & Reporting | Raw fluorescence data is processed, concentrations calculated, and comparisons made against control standards. This includes calculating limits of detection (LOD) and linearity. |
| Final Review & Consultation | A Creative Biolabs expert reviews the final data package with the client, offering insights on stability, purity, and recommendations for downstream steps (e.g., in vivo dosing). |
Required Starting Materials:
Estimated Timeframe: The typical timeframe for standard RNA Fluorescence Assay service ranges from 3 to 7 business days, depending on the number of samples, required dye specificity, and whether complex stability testing is included.
Final Deliverables:
When it comes to the analytical backbone of your mRNA therapeutics, precision and customization are paramount. Creative Biolabs provides a robust, scalable service portfolio built on rigorous quality standards to transform your RNA QC challenges into high-confidence data.
Our Advantage
Customization
Fully tailored assay design (dye choice, standards, format) to perfectly match your unique RNA molecule, size, and modifications (e.g., saRNA, lncRNA).
High-Throughput Capability
Utilize advanced, automated microplate platforms to rapidly screen hundreds of samples, ideal for LNP formulation development and stability studies.
Contaminant Exclusion
Specialized pre-treatment and selective dye chemistry ensure quantification targets only your RNA, eliminating interference from free nucleotides, proteins, and detergents.
Quality-by-Design (QbD) Principles
Implementation of strict quality controls and process analytical techniques (PAT) to deliver regulatory-grade data, essential for IND-enabling studies.
Superior Sensitivity
Guaranteed sensitivity down to the picogram range, providing accurate data even for precious, low-concentration samples where A260 fails.
One-Stop LNP Analysis
Comprehensive service including optimized lysis protocols for complex formulated samples (LNP, polyplexes), providing accurate encapsulation efficiency measurements from a single source.
The researchers used RNA-based BRET sensors to image living mammalian cells. After optimizing the relevant plasmids and co-transferring them into HEK293T cells, it was observed that the HEK293T cells transfected with the optimized plasmids exhibited a significant BRET ratio signal. Compared with the cells that did not express the optimized plasmids, the signal intensity increased by approximately 4.0 times. This system has been proven to have a high BRET efficiency and signal stability.
Fig.1 Imaging of living mammalian cells using RNA-based BRET sensors encoded by genes.1
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Our assay is specifically optimized for formulated samples. We use specialized, validated lysis protocols to release the mRNA payload, followed by dye binding. Because our fluorescent dyes are highly selective for nucleic acids, they effectively quantify the released RNA payload while the surrounding lipid components or buffer salts do not interfere with the fluorescence measurement.
Yes, our assay can be configured with highly specific RNA-selective dyes, or paired with a pre-treatment step (e.g., DNase) to eliminate DNA background. We recommend a dual-assay approach for ultimate confidence, providing separate measurements for total nucleic acid and RNA-only content. This level of specificity is why clients choose us for regulatory-grade QC data.
The benefit is accuracy and sensitivity, especially at small scales. Absorbance is sensitive to nearly everything, leading to overestimation of concentration. Our fluorescence assay offers a lower limit of detection (LOD) and selectively measures only RNA. This means you will stop wasting valuable reagents and time by using miscalculated concentrations in your downstream applications—a critical step toward reliable, reproducible research.
Absolutely. While SMLM provides the necessary spatial and kinetic insights, our bulk RNA Fluorescence Assay is the mandatory initial QC step. It verifies the precise input concentration for transfection or microinjection, ensuring you start your expensive imaging experiment with a known, controlled variable. Our services are complementary to advanced imaging—schedule a call to learn how we integrate quantitation and visualization.
Sample integrity is our priority. We provide detailed shipping guidelines recommending storage at -80°C on dry ice, using RNase-free tubes and buffers. We also offer specialized stability testing services where we measure degradation kinetics upon receipt, giving you full confidence in the quality of the data we deliver.
Creative Biolabs is dedicated to accelerating the frontier of life sciences. Our Custom RNA Fluorescence Assay Service is the bedrock of reliable quantitative RNA research, essential for the success of gene therapy and mRNA vaccine programs worldwide. By choosing us, you gain a partner committed to scientific excellence, stringent QC standards, and data integrity.
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