Question

Each cycle of PCR essentially double the amount of DNA from previous cycle. Explain. Also, give the applications of PCR in any two areas.

Answer 1

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technology used for quick and easy amplifying DNA sequences, which is based on the principle of enzymatic replication of the nucleic acids. In this, a small fragment of the DNA section of interest needs to be identified which serves as the template for producing the primers that initiate the reaction. One DNA molecule is used to produce two copies, then four, then eight and so forth. This continuous doubling is accomplished by specific proteins known as polymerases, enzymes. It is widely used in forensics and also for cancer research in laboratories.