Question

What is PCR and who discovered PCR technique?

Answer 1

PCR:

1. PCR stands for Polymerase chain reaction.
2. The discovery of PCR was done by Kary Mullis.
3. PCR is a technique used to synthesize multiple copies of DNA on a template DNA that is similar to the parent DNA.
4. PCR depends on thermostable DNA polymerase (Taq Polymerase), and DNA primers.

Steps in PCR:

1. Denaturation: At temperature between 94°-95°C, denaturation of DNA occur. Parent DNA breaks and forms two strands due to the application of high temperature.
2. Annealing: At temperatures between 50°-56° C, DNA primers bind to separated stands.
3. Elongation: At a temperature of 72° C, Taq polymerase binds to primer and forms double-stranded DNA from a single strand.