How do I interpret my qPCR results?

In quantitative PCR (qPCR) and microbial source tracking (MST) analysis, the critical threshold (Ct) is an important parameter. Ct represents the number of amplification cycles needed for a fluorescence signal to surpass a set threshold, indicating the detection of the target nucleic acid. 

Interpreting qPCR & MST results involves analyzing Ct values and considering the experiment's context. Here's a general guideline:

Early Ct Values (e.g., Ct < 29)

Indicates a high abundance of the target nucleic acid in your sample

Moderate Ct Values (e.g., 30 < Ct < 35)

Suggest a moderate abundance of the target nucleic acid in your sample

Late Ct Values (e.g., Ct > 35)

Indicate a low abundance or target nucleic acid in your sample with values close to 40 approaching the assay's detection limit.