[09] Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Flashcards
What is PCR?
A technique used in molecular biology to amplify a specific DNA segment.
Who developed the PCR technique?
Kary Mullis.
When was the PCR technique developed?
In 1983.
What are the three basic steps of a PCR cycle?
- Denaturation
- Annealing
- Extension
What happens during the denaturation step of PCR?
The double-stranded DNA is heated to break the hydrogen bonds and create two single strands.
What happens during the annealing step of PCR?
The temperature is lowered to allow the primers to bind to the single-stranded DNA.
What happens during the extension step of PCR?
DNA polymerase extends the primers to create a new strand of DNA.
Define “PCR Cycle”.
One complete round of denaturation, annealing, and extension in PCR.
What is the role of DNA polymerase in PCR?
To synthesize a new strand of DNA from the template.
What is the role of the primer in PCR?
To bind to the single-stranded DNA and provide a starting point for DNA polymerase.
What is the initial step in PCR before the cycling stages?
An initial denaturation step at a high temperature to separate the double-stranded DNA.
What is the final step in PCR after the cycling stages?
A final extension step at a high temperature to ensure all strands are fully extended.
What type of DNA polymerase is commonly used in PCR?
Taq polymerase.
Define “Taq Polymerase”.
A type of DNA polymerase that is thermostable and can withstand the high temperatures used in PCR.
Why is PCR important in genetic research?
It allows for the amplification of specific DNA segments, making further analysis possible.
