nCounter™ Analysis System

Multiplexed, Sensitive, Digital Gene Expression System

Multiplex hundreds of gene targets in a single reaction
High sensitivity (<1 copy per cell)
Fully-automated system
Direct digital detection

The nCounter Analysis System utilizes a novel digital technology that is based on direct multiplexed measurement of gene expression and offers high levels of precision and sensitivity (<1 copy per cell). The technology uses molecular barcodes and single molecule imaging to detect and count hundreds of unique transcripts in a single reaction.

NanoString’s Technology is based on color-coded “barcodes” and employs two ~50-bp probes per mRNA that hybridize in solution. The Reporter Probe carries the signal; the Capture Probe allows the complex to be immobilized for data collection.

After hybridization, the excess probes are removed and the probe/target complexes are aligned and immobilized in the nCounter Cartridge.

Sample Cartridges are placed in the Digital Analyzer for data collection. Color codes on the surface of the cartridge are counted and tabulated for each target molecule.

The nCounter Analysis System does not rely on enzymes for copying or amplification. It enables highly sensitive detection and quantification of gene expression from a wide variety of sample types including direct measurement from purified total RNA, cell and tissue lysates, RNA extracted from FFPE samples and blood without goblin mitigation.

The nCoutner Analysis System is an integrated system comprised of a fully-automated prep station, a digital analyzer, the CodeSet (molecular barcodes) and all of the reagents and consumables needed to perform the analysis.