Short Communication, J Mol Biol Methods Vol: 6 Issue: 3
Assessing the Technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction and its Significance
Darnile Sheeng*
1Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
*Corresponding Author: Darnile Sheeng,
Department of Internal Medicine, China
Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
E-mail: darnile_sheeng@cmu21.tw
Received date: 23 August, 2023, Manuscript No. JMBM-23-118070;
Editor assigned date: 25 August, 2023, PreQC No. JMBM-23-118070 (PQ);
Reviewed date: 08 September, 2023, QC No. JMBM-23-118070;
Revised date: 15 September, 2023, Manuscript No. JMBM-23-118070 (R);
Published date: 22 September, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/jmbm.1000141
Citation: Sheeng D (2023) Assessing the Technique of Polymerase Chain Reaction and its Significance. J Mol Biol Methods 6:3.
Description
In the realm of molecular biology, few techniques have had as profound an impact as the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Since its inception in the mid-1980s, PCR has revolutionised the way experts study and understand genetics. This powerful method allows studies to amplify DNA, analyse genes, diagnose diseases, and even solve criminal cases [1].
PCR is a laboratory technique used to develop millions of copies of a specific DNA segment. It was first developed by Kary Mullis in 1983, and it has since become a cornerstone of modern molecular biology. At its core, PCR relies on a few fundamental components. The DNA sample contains the target sequence to be amplified. Primers contain short DNA strands that are complementary to the sequences flanking the target DNA. DNA polymerase is an enzyme that builds a new DNA strand based on the template and primers [2].
Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA (A,T,C and G) needed to construct the new DNA strands. A thermal cycle is a machine that controls the temperature of the reaction, allowing for the denaturation, annealing, and extension steps of PCR. The process of PCR involves a series of temperature cycles, which facilitate the separation of the DNA strands (denaturation), the binding of primers to the target DNA (annealing), and the synthesis of new DNA strands (extension) [3]. After just a few cycles, the target DNA segment is exponentially amplified. PCR can be tailored to amplify a specific region within a complex mixture, making it incredibly precise.
Significance of PCR
PCR has had a profound impact in various fields, and its significance is undeniable. PCR is the cornerstone of modern genetics. Experts use it to study genes, identify mutations, and understand genetic variation. It has played a pivotal role in mapping the human genome, helping to unravel the mysteries of DNA. PCR is a vital tool in clinical laboratories for the diagnosis of diseases [4,5]. It allows for the detection of pathogens like viruses and bacteria, as well as genetic disorders and cancer mutations. Notably, PCR has been pivotal in the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, as it is the primary method for detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus in diagnostic tests.
PCR has revolutionised forensic investigations. DNA evidence, when available in small quantities, can be amplified using PCR to provide essential information in criminal cases. It has been instrumental in solving cold cases and exonerating innocent individuals [6]. PCR is used to compare DNA sequences across species, shedding light on evolutionary relationships and helping analysts trace the genetic roots of various organisms.
PCR is essential for environmental DNA (eDNA) studies. It allows analysts to detect and identify species in a particular environment based on the DNA they leave behind, even if the organisms themselves are not present [7,8]. PCR plays an important role in genetic engineering and biotechnology. It is used to clone DNA fragments, develop recombinant DNA, and produce specific genes or proteins.
PCR has enabled the analysis of ancient DNA, providing insights into human history, migrations, and evolution. It has been used to study mummies, fossils, and archaeological artifacts. PCR is utilised to detect foodborne pathogens, ensuring the safety of food products. It helps identify contamination sources and prevents foodborne illness outbreaks [9,10].
Conclusion
As technology advances, the field of molecular biology continues to evolve. The technique of PCR has consistently adapted to meet new challenges and applications. Its significance is likely to expand further in the future, with developments such as isothermal amplification techniques, portable PCR devices for use in remote areas, and pointof- care diagnostics. PCR has indeed revolutionised the understanding of genetics, transformed medical diagnostics, and opened up new avenues in a wide range of biological disciplines. Its significance is undeniable, and it remains an essential component of modern biology. As one can move forward, one can expect PCR to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of molecular biology, genomics, and personalised medicine. In essence, PCR is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the enduring quest to unlock the mysteries of life encoded in DNA.
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