Bio-Rad iScript™ Reverse Transcription Supermix for RT-qPCR User Manual
Iscript, Reverse transcription supermix for rt-qpcr
Introduction
The iScript reverse transcription supermix for RT-qPCR 
(iScript RT supermix) is a sensitive, fast, and convenient 
reagent for gene expression analysis using real-time reverse 
transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and standard 
RT-PCR. The preblended 5x supermix contains in one tube 
all the necessary components, except RNA template, 
for first-strand cDNA synthesis.
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 Simple and fast — short protocol time (40 min) and 1-tube 
master mix format allow easy setup and fast qPCR results
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 Data reproducibility — 1-tube supermix format 
reduces pipetting steps and promotes consistent and 
reproducible results 
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 Broad dynamic range — works with a broad linear 
dynamic range of input total RNA (1 µg–1 pg) and 
allows sensitive detection of target genes with low 
expression levels
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 Primer design flexibility — includes an optimum blend 
of oligo(dT) and random primers to provide unbiased 
representation of the 5' and 3' regions of target genes for 
freedom in qPCR primer design
Storage and Stability
Store at –20°C. Guaranteed for 9 months at –20°C in a 
constant temperature freezer (this reagent will not freeze 
at –20°C).
Kit Contents
Reagent Description
iScript RT supermix 
5x RT supermix with iScript RNase H+
(gray cap, 25 or 100 reactions)
 MMLV reverse transcriptase, RNase 
inhibitor, dNTPs, oligo(dT), random primers, 
buffer, MgCl
2
, and stabilizers
iScript no-RT control supermix
5x no-RT control supermix formulated to
(clear cap, 50 reactions)
 serve as a no-enzyme control, contains all 
components of iScript RT supermix except 
reverse transcriptase
Nuclease-free water
—
Reaction Setups
Reaction Setup for a Single cDNA Synthesis Reaction
For optimal results, reactions should be assembled on ice 
using appropriate reaction vessels.
Component
Volume per Reaction, µl
iScript RT supermix
4
RNA template (1 µg–1 pg total RNA)
Variable
Nuclease-free water
Variable
Total volume
20
 
Reaction Setup for Multiple cDNA Synthesis Reactions 
The following table shows an example of a master mix 
preparation for ten reactions with 5 µl input RNA (1 µg–1 pg) 
and enough excess master mix to accommodate loss during 
pipetting.* For optimal results, reactions should be assembled 
on ice using appropriate reaction vessels.
Component
Volume per Reaction, µl
iScript RT supermix
48
Nuclease-free water
132
Total volume
180
 
1. Prepare the reverse transcription master mix as indicated in 
the table above. Mix thoroughly by pipetting up and down 
several times.
2. Add 15 µl master mix to 5 µl RNA for each reverse
transcription reaction.
3. Adjust the volume of water if the input RNA volume is not
5 µl input RNA (1 µg–1 pg), as stated in the example above.
* I f more reactions are required, scale up appropriately. The volume of supermix
provided in 25- and 100-reaction kits does not take into account the 
preparation of excess master mix.
Reaction Protocol
Incubate the complete reaction mix in a thermal cycler using 
the following protocol:
Priming
5 min at 25°C
Reverse transcription
30 min at 42°C
RT inactivation
5 min at 85°C
Catalog #
Description
170-8840
iScript Reverse Transcription Supermix for RT-qPCR, 100 µl of 5x supermix, 25 reactions
170-8841
iScript Reverse Transcription Supermix for RT-qPCR, 4 x 100 µl of 5x supermix, 100 reactions
iScript
™
Reverse Transcription Supermix for RT-qPCR
For research purposes only.