Molecular Diagnostics Tools
Powering precision amplification
Watchmaker Genomics develops enzyme systems and chemistries that help assay developers build faster, more robust molecular diagnostics (MDx) for point-of-care pathogen detection. Our portfolio of MDx tools is engineered to deliver exceptional inhibitor tolerance, consistency, and performance – enabling reliable amplification from challenging sample types. By focusing on the core chemistries behind qPCR, RT-qPCR, and recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), Watchmaker provides the tools developers need to design assays that perform when it matters most.
- NEW Stellar RT-qPCR and qPCR Kits enable fast, inhibitor-tolerant target detection, utilizing our robust, engineered StellarTaq™ DNA Polymerase and StellarScript® HT+ Reverse Transcriptase paired with optimized buffers for maximum performance.
- RPA enzymes provide consistent isothermal amplification of DNA targets, and enables one step RT-RPA with the addition of StellarScript HT+ Reverse Transcriptase
Key Highlights:
- Extreme inhibitor tolerance for amplification of crude preparations or unpurified samples - saving time and reducing costs
- Faster amplification for faster answers
- Shorter cycle times with engineered polymerase and RT enzymes
- Get results in minutes with RPA rather than waiting for LAMP
- Compatible with both RNA and DNA targets for detection of viral and bacterial pathogens across a broad dynamic range
- Flexible formats with individual components support assay development and optimization
- Custom configurations available, including high-concentration and glycerol-free enzymes to support lyophilization
Watch Now ESCMID 2026 Innovation and Pipeline Theater Talk
Product comparison
Not seeing the full table? Rotate your phone to view in landscape mode.
| Stellar RT-qPCR and qPCR Kits | RPA Enzymes | |
| Typical uses | Point-of-care and central laboratory assays using qPCR instrumentation for quantitative or qualitative pathogen detection | Qualitative field and point-of-care assays where speed and simplicity are essential, offering faster results and less complex assay design compared to LAMP |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal cycling needed | Yes - standard or fast PCR methods and hardware | No - isothermal amplification reduces hardware bulk, power, and complexity |
| Reaction time | Conventional thermal cyclers: 40 min Ultrafast thermal cyclers: <10 min | <10 min |
| Target nucleic acids | DNA or RNA (with optional RT addition) | |
| Sensitivity | Capable of detection of ≤10 copies | |
| Customizability | Available as individual enzymes and components to support assay development, optimization, and supply chain needs | |
| Lyophilization compatibility | Yes | |