PCR components Flashcards
What temperature does the DNA double helix separate during PCR?
Around 95°C
This high temperature is crucial for the denaturation step in the PCR process.
What happens to the DNA strands when cooled after heating in PCR?
They rejoin
This rejoining must be prevented so that the single
strands can be used as templates for DNA
polymerase to complete new strands of the
DNA.
What is the role of primers in PCR?
To stop the strands from rejoining.
What components are included in the mixture PCD is done in
- Free nucleotides
- DNA polymerase
- Many copies of the primer
- Original sample of DNA
Why is it important to have many copies of the primer in PCR?
It increases the chance that each separated strand will bind to a primer rather than to its complementary strand.
What does DNA polymerase do in the PCR process?
It brings free nucleotides into place, following the complementary base pairing rule.
What is the result of the PCR process?
Two identical double-stranded molecules that are the same as the original sample.
Why can’t human DNA polymerase be used in PCR?
It would denature at high temperatures.
What type of DNA polymerase is used in PCR to withstand high temperatures?
DNA polymerase extracted from bacteria that live at very high temperatures.
True or False: Heat resistant enzymes will denature at the PCR temperature.
False.
