Development of a duplex chamber digital PCR to quantify twelve genetically modified maize events

Accurate quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is essential for regulatory compliance, especially under threshold-based labeling policies. In this study, we developed and validated twelve event-specific duplex chamber- or chip-based digital PCR (cdPCR) methods using microfluidic ar...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Eun-Ha Kim, Youn-Sung Cho, Byeori Kim, Yelinn Yoo, Jae-In Lee, Young Soon Kim, Tae-Sung Park
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2025-12-01
Series:GM Crops & Food
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Online Access:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/21645698.2025.2548053
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Summary:Accurate quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is essential for regulatory compliance, especially under threshold-based labeling policies. In this study, we developed and validated twelve event-specific duplex chamber- or chip-based digital PCR (cdPCR) methods using microfluidic array plates to quantify GM maize events approved in South Korea. In contrast to conventional real-time PCR, the cdPCR approach allows for absolute quantification without standard curve calibration and incorporates event-specific zygosity ratio correction to improve accuracy of the measurement. The method was evaluated at GMO content levels of 0.9%, 3.0%, and 5.0%. It demonstrated high sensitivity and robustness, with trueness, precision, and reproducibility satisfying the minimum performance criteria recommended by international guidelines. Comparative analysis with real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) showed comparable accuracy; however, cdPCR provided advantages in cost-efficiency and operational simplicity. These findings support the applicability of duplex cdPCR as a practical and reliable tool for GMO quantification, particularly in national regulatory laboratories and for enforcement of labeling thresholds such as Korea’s 3.0% rule.
ISSN:2164-5698
2164-5701