PCR: Identification of Genetic Polymorphisms

Abstract

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enables the amplification of a specific sequence of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) through the process of three main steps: template DNA denaturation, annealing of the primers to complementary sequences, and primer extension to synthesize DNA strands. By using this method, the target sequence will be copied and amplified at an exponential rate. PCR provides a qualitative method for identifying DNA from fresh or dried cells/body fluids, formalin-fixed archival tissue specimens, and ancient specimens.Herein we describe basic information for performing successful PCR experiments using the amplification of a human Alu insertion on the PV92 gene locus on chromosome 16 as an example method.

Keywords: Amplification; DNA synthesis; DNA template; Deoxynucleotides (dNTPs); Nucleic acid denaturation; Oligonucleotide primers; Polymerase chain reaction (PCR); Taq DNA polymerase; Target sequence; Thermocycler.