The full form of PCR is Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is a laboratory technique that is used to amplify small segments of DNA which can generate millions of copies from a single DNA molecule. This process enables scientists to study and analyze tiny DNA samples with incredible precision. In this blog, we will delve into the PCR full form and know everything about it.
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The PCR Process in Simple Terms
Table of Contents
PCR follows a simple and efficient three-step process: denaturation, annealing, and extension. Let’s break it down into easily understandable points:
- Denaturation: The DNA sample is heated to a high temperature, around 95°C. This causes the DNA double helix to separate into two single strands. This step prepares the DNA for the amplification process.
- Annealing: The temperature is lowered to allow short DNA primers to bind to specific sequences on each strand of the DNA. These primers act as starting points for DNA replication. The primers are designed to flank the target DNA sequence and ensure the selective amplification of the desired segment.
- Extension: The temperature is raised slightly, and a heat-resistant DNA polymerase enzyme starts synthesizing new DNA strands using the primers as templates. The enzyme attaches nucleotides to the DNA strand, replicating the target DNA segment. This process is repeated multiple times, doubling the amount of DNA with each cycle.
By repeating the denaturation, annealing, and extension steps, the number of DNA copies exponentially increases which eventually results in millions or billions of copies of the target DNA segment.
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The Significance of PCR
PCR revolutionized the field of molecular biology and has numerous applications and uses in various scientific disciplines:
- Genetic Research: PCR helps scientists to amplify specific DNA sequences for further analysis. It is helpful and can be used in the study of genes, genomes, and genetic mutations. PCR has paved the way for genetic research and understanding of inherited diseases.
- Forensic Analysis: It allows forensic scientists to amplify DNA samples from crime scenes, identifying suspects or victims based on their DNA profiles. The sensitivity and specificity of PCR make it an indispensable tool in forensic DNA analysis.
- Medical Diagnostics: They can diagnose infectious diseases, detect genetic disorders, and even identify cancerous cells. PCR provides quicker and more accurate results compared to traditional laboratory techniques.
- Paternity Testing: PCR-based DNA tests are commonly utilized for paternity testing. By comparing the genetic profiles of the child, mother, and alleged father PCR can determine the probability of biological relatedness.
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