singleplex

Singleplex is a term used in several technical fields to describe a setup that handles a single target, channel, or signal, as opposed to multiplex or duplex configurations. The exact meaning depends on the discipline, but the common theme is simplicity and isolation of one item or pathway.

In molecular biology, singleplex PCR refers to amplifying one specific DNA target in a single reaction tube using a dedicated pair of primers. This is in contrast to multiplex PCR, which aims to amplify multiple targets simultaneously in one reaction. Singleplex assays often offer higher sensitivity and specificity for a given target and reduce primer–dimer formation and competition among targets, at the cost of increased reagent use and more reactions when testing many targets.

In fiber optics and telecommunications, singleplex can describe a unidirectional, single-fiber link that carries one signal or channel. This is typically contrasted with duplex links, which support two directions, or multiplexed links that carry multiple signals on the same fiber through techniques like wavelength-division or time-division multiplexing. Singleplex/fiber configurations are simple and robust but may require additional physical fibers or separate channels to support bidirectional communication.

Other uses of the term appear in broader engineering contexts to denote single-target or single-channel implementations, where avoiding cross-talk and interaction between multiple targets is advantageous. In practice, whether called singleplex, simplex, or another term, the core idea is the isolation and handling of one item at a time.