MCQ3 Prep Flashcards
(10 cards)
Purpose of PCR
Amplification of specific DNA sequences making millions of copies for analysis in just hours.
Role of Taq polymerase in PCR
The heat stable enzyme will be used to synthesize new DNA in the extension step of PCR.
Sources of error in PCR
Primer-dimer formation (primers attach to each other), non-specific amplification, contamination and polymerase errors.
How do Mg2+ ions affect PCR?
Cofactor of polymerase, it greatly affects binding specificity.
DNA fingerprinting
Technique used to distinguish individuals based on variations in their DNA sequences often using VNTR or STR analysis.
VNTR (Variable Number Tandem Repeats)
Repeated DNA sequences that vary in length among individuals, making them useful for forensic identification.
STR (Short Tandem Repeats)
Short repeats making them more stable, useful for profiling.
Semi conservative DNA.
Double stranded DNA of one original strand and one synthesized strand.
Multiple STR loci analyzation.
Analyzing multiple loci increases discrimination power, reducing the chance of false matches.
CODIS (Combined Index System)
US database storing STR files for forensic investigations.
