Calculation of measurement uncertainty in quantitative analysis of genetically modified organisms using intermediate precision--a practical approach
Zel, J.; Gruden, K.; Cankar, K.; Stebih, D.; Blejec, A.
Journal - Association of Official Analytical Chemists 90(2): 582-586
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-5756 PMID: 17474528 Document Number: 611762
Quantitative characterization of nucleic acids is becoming a frequently used method in routine analysis of biological samples, one use being the detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Measurement uncertainty is an important factor to be considered in these analyses, especially where precise thresholds are set in regulations. Intermediate precision, defined as a measure between repeatability and reproducibility, is a parameter describing the real situation in laboratories dealing with quantitative aspects of molecular biology methods. In this paper, we describe the top-down approach to calculating measurement uncertainty, using intermediate precision, in routine GMO testing of food and feed samples. We illustrate its practicability in defining compliance of results with regulations. The method described is also applicable to other molecular methods for a variety of laboratory diagnostics where quantitative characterization of nucleic acids is needed.