Immunology Chapter 12

Molecular Diagnostics

A field of diagnostics focused on testing for nucleic acid sequences at the molecular level, offering advantages such as faster turnaround times and increased specificity.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

A double-stranded molecule containing the genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms, composed of adenine, guanine, thymine, and cytosine.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

A single-stranded nucleic acid that helps in the translation of genetic information from DNA to proteins, containing adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A molecular technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, resulting in the production of numerous copies of a particular strand.

Transcription

The process by which a strand of messenger RNA (mRNA) is synthesized from DNA, acting as a template.

Translation

The process by which messenger RNA is translated into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein.

Hybridization

A technique used in molecular biology that involves forming complementary base pairs between nucleic acid sequences.

Probe

A labeled single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotide used to detect the presence of a specific target nucleic acid.

Mutations

Changes in the nucleotide sequence of DNA that can be inherited or acquired, leading to genetic variation.

Polymorphisms

Frequent changes in the nucleotide sequence of DNA that occur within a population, often referred to as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Southern Blot

A method used to detect specific DNA sequences by cutting DNA into smaller fragments, separating them by electrophoresis, and using probes for identification.

Northern Blot

A technique used to detect specific RNA sequences through the separation of RNA on a gel followed by hybridization with labeled probes.

In Situ Hybridization

A technique that allows for the detection of specific nucleic acid sequences in their native tissue context.

Real-time PCR (RT PCR)

A quantitative PCR method that allows for the measurement of DNA amplification during the PCR process in real time.

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)

A high-throughput method of sequencing that allows for the rapid analysis of large segments of DNA, useful in genomics and pathogen identification.

Amplification Techniques

Methods used to increase the amount of a target nucleic acid for detection and analysis, including target amplification, signal amplification, and probe amplification.