Introduction
Why?
As we begin to understand how critical single cell data is to human health, there is growing urgency for more reproducible technologies. Even flow cytometry, the most standardized method for single cell analysis, is plagued by issues arising from user to user variability. Each parameter such as sample preparation, staining, instrument set up, gating, and data interpretation can introduce inconsistencies between replicates. Users measuring the same samples commonly report up to two orders of magnitude of difference in their respective enumeration of rare cells.
DOT assays reach a new level of reproducibility at the single cell level by decreasing possibilities for error and increasing precision. Each assay returns consistent results regardless of sample type, background, instrument, or user without the need for calibration. The reproducibility of DOT assays makes it an enabling technology allowing researchers to divide and conquer on the frontiers of science. With truly comparable results, thousands of independent labs can combine their work with confidence to accomplish in a year what would otherwise take a millennium. Together we can do so much more in a lifetime.
