DIGITAL ANALYTE ANALYSIS

The invention generally relates to droplet based digital PCR and methods for analyzing a target nucleic acid using the same. In certain embodiments, a method for determining the nucleic acid make-up of a sample is provided. In one aspect, the invention provides a droplet that contains a single nucleic acid template and a plurality of primer pairs specific for multiple target sites on the template. The single nucleic acid template can be DNA or RNA. The template is amplified in the droplet for detection; and may preferably be amplified using a plurality of primer pairs as described herein. The ability to amplify and detect single nucleic acids in droplets enables digital PCR, detection, counting, and differentiation among nucleic acids, especially those present in heterogeneous samples. Thus, the invention applies to digital amplification techniques and, in specific embodiments enables multiplex PCR in droplets.