Question: Why is GEM storage at -20°C not a validated stopping point in the Flex Gene Expression assay?
Answer: Storing GEMs after GEM Incubation at -20°C is not a validated stopping point in the Flex Gene Expression assay. Although assay sensitivity will not be affected, a drop in the "Confidently Mapped Reads in Cells" (~2-10%) is expected when GEMs are stored at -20°C. For optimal assay performance, GEMs can be stored at 4°C after GEM Incubation for up to a week, or proceed to the next step.
If GEMs are stored at -20°C/-80°C after GEM Incubation, you may still proceed with sequencing because there will be useful data obtained from these samples. However, the risk should be noted that there will be an expected decrease in "Confidently Mapped Reads in Cells."
Product: Flex Gene Expression