关键词: 基因表达谱分析, 性发育启动, 多重定量RT-PCR, 通用引物

Abstract: A multiplex quantitative RT-PCR technology with a universal fluorescent primer was established. This tech-nology employs a chimeric-primer-induced-universal-primer amplification method that ensures target genes amplified in a constant ratio. This technique was cost-effective, moderate-throughput, and reliable in quantification of gene expression. It is complementary to cDNA chip, which has low quantitative accuracy , and Real-time quantitative PCR with low through-put, through improving the entire process of expression profiling analysis. Eleven genes within a QTL segment regulating mouse puberty onset on chromosome X were investigated to construct and optimize the method. The sensitivity of detection (102 copies) was determined, the concentration ratio of universal primer and chimeric forward primers (1:1) was optimized, and the accuracy and repeatability were validated. The method of Touchdown PCR with addition of universal primers sig-nificantly improved amplification of genes expressed in low abundance. After testing the expression profile of 11 genes in hypothalamus and testis in two mouse strains C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J at the age of 15 d, one gene named PHF6 was found differentially expressed for further function analysis.