1.2.5 PCR Flashcards
(9 cards)
1
Q
What is PCR a technique for?
A
the amplification of DNA in vitro
2
Q
How does PCR amplify DNA?
A
using complementary primers for specific target DNA sequences.
3
Q
What does PCR stand for?
A
Polymerase Chain Reaction
4
Q
Requirements of PCR (6)
A
- DNA template
- Primers
- Nucleotides
- pH buffer (maintains optimum)
- Heat tolerant DNA Polymerase
- Thermal cycler machine (to carry out PCR)
5
Q
Uses of PCR
A
- Forensics: DNA from crime scene can be amplified to determine who was there
- Paternity: DNA can be amplified to prove who is a parent or related
- Diagnosis: Embryonic DNA samples can be amplified to check for genetic disorders
6
Q
PCR step 1
A
DNA heated to between 92 and 98 degrees in order to denature DNA and break the bonds between strands
7
Q
PCR step 2
A
DNA cooled to between 50 and 65 degrees in order to allow primers to bind to target sequences
8
Q
PCR step 3
A
DNA heated to between 70 and 80 degrees for heat tolerant polymerase to replicate the region of DNA
9
Q
What does the thermal cycler do?
A
allows PCR to be automated
