PCR

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique in molecular biology to amplify a specific segment of DNA by repeating denaturation, annealing, and extension steps in cycles.

Denaturation

The process in PCR where DNA strands are separated by heating the reaction mixture to break hydrogen bonds.

Annealing

The step in PCR where primers bind to complementary sequences on single-stranded DNA at a lower temperature.

Extension

In PCR, DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to the primer, extending the DNA chain at an optimal temperature.

PCR Applications

PCR is used in medical diagnostics, forensics, and research to detect pathogens, amplify DNA for genetic fingerprinting, and generate DNA for further experiments.

Cystic Fibrosis

An autosomal recessive disorder with symptoms like persistent cough, lung infections, and salty-tasting skin due to mutations in the CFTR gene on Chromosome 7.

Sickle Cell Anemia

An autosomal recessive disorder causing anemia, pain episodes, and delayed growth due to mutations in the HBB gene on Chromosome 11.

Tay-Sachs Disease

An autosomal recessive disorder leading to decreased muscle tone, seizures, and a red spot on the macula due to mutations in the HEXA gene on Chromosome 15.

Parkinson’s Disease

A disease with varied inheritance patterns and symptoms like tremors and slow movement, involving mutations in genes like LRRK2, PARK2, and SNCA on different chromosomes.

Achondroplasia

An autosomal dominant disorder causing short stature and disproportionate limbs due to mutations in the FGFR3 gene on Chromosome 4.