2.4 Amplification of DNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction

Polymerase Chain Reaction

a technique used to amplify a segment of DNA

Taq polymerase

an enzyme used in PCR that adds free nucleotides to the single stranded DNA in order to synthesise a new strand

denaturing

the first stage in PCR, in which a double-stranded piece of DNA is heated and separated into single-stranded DNA. 94 degreees

annealing

the second stage in PCR, in which primers attach to the single-stranded DNA. 55 degrees

extension

the third stage of PCR, in which the Taq polymerase enzyme synthesises a new strand of DNA by adding free nucleotide. 72 degrees