Surmounting a PCR challenge using a Contradictory matrix from the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ)

In this paper I tested whether Contradictory Matrix with 40 Inventive Principles, the simplest instrument from the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), is a useful approach to a real-life PCR scenario. The PCR challenge consisted of standardization of fluorescence melting curve measurements in Competitive Amplification of Differentially Melting Amplicons (CADMA) PCR for multiple targets. Here I describe my way of using the TRIZ Matrix to generate seven alternative solutions from which I can choose the successful solution, consisting of repeated cycles of amplification and melting in a single PCR run. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40064-015-1577-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.