conventional v real-time PCR applications - (Apr/02/2010 )

Couple of questions for those who know...

In general what type of testing (both research and clinical) is done using conventional qualitative PCR? real-time/qPCR?

Do people still use conventional PCR much? who and for what?

In clinical applications is infectious disease testing typically done using conventional or real-time?

Thanks for replies!!

Real time PCR seems to be the route to go nowadays due to it's ability to detect low copy #s. However, the cost of real time is a bit higher due to machine itself and reagents such as specific dyes and what not. conventional pcr is still used for simple detection methods or molecular techniques such as gel extractions. both are still used, however it depends on the applications and or downstream applications.