Transcript quantification followed a protocol based on the nCounter (Nanostring Technologies) Gene Expression Assay User manual (MAN-C0003–03). Target cDNA species undergo direct molecular barcoding during a 12 h, 65°C hybridization with excess capture and reporter probe pairs. Using the automated nCounter Prepstation, excess probe is removed, target/probe complexes are eluted and immobilized in a sample cartridge, and the cartridge analyzed on the nCounter Digital Analyzer.