Exp 50 Vocab - MICRO 3020L

Primers

Short pieces of DNA that identify where DNA copying should begin.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A laboratory technique used to make millions of copies of a specific DNA segment.

dNTP (Deoxynucleotide Triphosphates)

The building blocks used to create new DNA strands.

Gel Electrophoresis

A technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size using an electric current.

Thermocycler

A machine that changes temperatures during PCR to help copy DNA.

Fluorescent Stain

A chemical that attaches to DNA and makes it visible under special light.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that builds new DNA strands by adding nucleotides.

Denaturation

The PCR step where heat separates double-stranded DNA into two single strands.

Annealing

The PCR step where the temperature decreases, allowing primers to attach to the DNA strands.

Replication/Extension

The PCR step where DNA polymerase adds nucleotides to create new DNA strands.