The MIQE guidelines: Minimum information for publication of quantitative real-time PCR experiments

BACKGROUND: Currently, a lack of consensus exists on how best to perform and interpret quantitative real- time PCR (qPCR) experiments. The problem is exac- erbated by a lack of sufficient experimental detail in many publications, which impedes a reader's ability to evaluate critically the quality of the results presented or to repeat the experiments. CONTENT: The Minimum Information for Publication of Quantitative Real-Time PCR Experiments (MIQE) guidelines target the reliability of results to help ensure the integrity of the scientific literature, promote con- sistency between laboratories, and increase experimen- tal transparency. MIQE is a set of guidelines that de- scribe the minimum information necessary for evaluating qPCR experiments. Included is a checklist to accompany the initial submission of a manuscript to the publisher. By providing all relevant experimental conditions and assay characteristics, reviewers can as- sess the validity of the protocols used. Full disclosure of all reagents, sequences, and analysis methods is neces- sary to enable other investigators to reproduce results. MIQE details should be published either in abbreviated form or as an online supplement. SUMMARY: Following these guidelines will encourage better experimental practice, allowing more reliable and unequivocal interpretation of qPCR results.