highQu® HighScriber™ Reverse Transcriptase Mix

Choosing the right reverse transcriptase

Different reverse transcriptase used for cDNA synthesis have different properties and therefore not all of them are suitable for the same applications. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right reverse transcriptase:

•          Some reverse transcriptases work at lower temperatures, such as 42°C (MMuLV RT), while thermostable reverse transcriptases work at higher temperatures, such as 50°C or 55°C (highQu HighScriber™ RT). The more complex templates are transcribed, the higher temperature is recommended to disrupt secondary structures of the RNA.

•          Reverse transcriptases might have template preferences and are more efficient at synthesizing cDNA from certain RNA templates, such as mRNA, while others can synthesize cDNA from a wider range of RNA templates.

•          The sensitivity of a reverse transcriptase becomes especially important if the RNA sample is of low copy-number concentration. Not all enzymes can synthesize cDNA from low amounts of RNA efficiently.

•          The speed of reverse transcriptases also differs. Some RT enzymes work faster than others and ensure high cDNA synthesis yield in less time.

Good enzymes are typically supplied with optimized reverse transcription reagents to ensure high reverse transcription yields, enable high temperature protocols, provide high specificity and unbiased cDNA synthesis.