Question

Based on this question can you give me examples how PCR can be used for biotechology?

1. How can PCR be a useful tool for biotechnology?

-to make multiple copies of a piece of DNA enzymatically

-used to:

            -clone DNA for recombination

            -amplify DNA to detectable levels

            -sequence DNA

            -diagnose genetic disease

-detect pathogens

Answer 1

Polymerase chain reaction is an enzymatic process which allows synthesis of multiple copies of the DNA fragment. It uses the short DNA sequence called oligonucleotides primers which has complmentry sequence to target DNA

Firstly the DNA sample is denatured to produce single stranded DNA called template DNA to which oligonucleotides primer can bind. The enzyme DNA polymrpoly then add nucleotide bases to each primer using template strand as guide thereby producing new double stranded DNA . This process is repeated by number of cycles.

The pcr primers are short fragments of DNA usually 15-30 nucleotide in length which provide free 3-OH group to which polymerase enzyme can add dNTP's.

Thus this technique allows isolation of DNA fragments by selective amplification of specific region of DNA. It helps the DNA cloning technique which require high amount of pure DNA this enables analysis of DNA samples from low quantity of sample. pcr also can be used for DNA sequencing to identify the amplified DNA sample.

Since pcr uses amplification of target regions of DNA it can be used to analyse extremely small quantity of DNA. PCR can also be used in diagnosis of genetic diseases. Many genetic disease are occurred due to mutation in specific region of fragments of DNA using PCR one can detect the site at which change in sequence of DNA has occurred causing disease. It also can be used to diagnose the inherited or spontaneous diseases which can be result of family history such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy

PCR amplifies the DNA fragment which code for specific character therefore the sequence which causes the disease can be identified Form the genome. For example haemoglobinopathis which is a disease in which abnormal haemoglobin molecules are formed. the genetic reason behind this disease can be studied by using PCR technique