Methods for external controls for nucleic acid amplification

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Methods of nucleic acid amplification with external controls are provided that verify the absence or presence of specific target sequences and correct , primers and probes. A single-stranded external control polynucleotide is , amplified with primers of the same sequence as target primers. Probes with detectable labels and sequences specific for target and external control polynucleotides allow for detection and measurement. The primers and the detectable probe are adjacent or substantially adjacent when hybridization of a self-quenching probe complementary to both target and external control polynucleotides. A kit of PCR reagents can be dispensed into vessels for rapid and accurate …