Aerosol contamination in PCR typically refers to DNA/RNA aerosol contamination, a common form of air pollution in laboratories. Small nucleic acid fragments are released into the air during operations such as centrifugation, vigorous shaking of reaction tubes, opening PCR product tubes, and repeated pipetting. When these fragments adhere to airborne dust particles, they form what is commonly known as nucleic acid aerosols.

If target bands are still amplified using deionized water as a template after excluding reagent contamination and cross-contamination between samples, aerosol contamination is highly likely. Such false-positive PCR results render experimental data unreliable!

To Eliminate Aerosol Contamination

Two key approaches are recommended:

1. Eliminate existing PCR contamination;

2. Maintain long-term laboratory cleanliness.

1 - Measures to Eliminate PCR Contamination

Avoid opening amplified PCR product tubes. If opening is necessary, perform operations far from PCR reagent preparation areas—ideally on separate floors. Do not wear lab coats or gloves used in post-PCR areas into reagent preparation zones;

Dispose of PCR products promptly to prevent accumulation in the laboratory;

Replace reagents and consumables, including primers, polymerases, deionized water, and microcentrifuge tubes;

Relocate the PCR amplification area. Design primers with amplification regions distinct from contaminated fragments to resolve existing aerosol contamination.

2 - Laboratory Environment Maintenance

Adopt good laboratory practices: Wipe benches and pipettes with 75% ethanol before PCR experiments. Avoid vigorous mixing during DNA extraction, primer reconstitution, and PCR setup; open/close tubes gently. Clean spills thoroughly with 75% ethanol at least twice;

Control laboratory ventilation: Ensure at least 4 hours of daily ventilation (aerosol contamination is especially prevalent during winter/summer air conditioning periods);

UV irradiation: After routine experiments, perform scheduled UV exposure for 2 hours daily. Ventilate windows afterward to prevent ozone buildup.

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About Rocgene

Founded in 2016, Rocgene (Beijing) Scientific Instruments Co., Ltd. is a core technology-driven biotech enterprise established by scientists and industry leaders. Rocgene specializes in translating life science innovations into clinical research products and developing proprietary research and molecular diagnostic solutions with independent intellectual property rights.

Rocgene has been recognized as a National High-Tech Enterprise, Beijing Specialized, Refined, Differential, and Innovative (SRDI) SME, and Zhongguancun High-Tech Enterprise. The company holds 4 Class III and 17 Class I medical device registrations in China, plus 30 CE certifications, 4 FDA clearances, 4 MHRA certifications, and 3 NADFC certifications. Rocgene owns 67 patents (41 invention, 12 utility model, 14 design) and 47 software copyrights, with products exported to nearly 20 countries.

In July 2023, Rocgene relocated to its Beijing headquarters, housing a >10,000 m² R&D center with standardized laboratories. Its Xuzhou subsidiary operates a >10,000 m² intelligent manufacturing base with 4 instrument lines and 3 reagent production lines. Rocgene is ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 certified, maintaining rigorous quality management.

With a spirit of innovation and ambition, Rocgene strives to become a forward-looking industry leader.

Rocgene Product Series