The polymerase chain reaction
A) is a method for sequencing DNA.
B) is used to transcribe specific genes.
C) amplifies specific DNA sequences.
D) does not require DNA replication primers.
E) uses a DNA polymerase that denatures at 55°C.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences. This is done by using short DNA oligonucleotide primers that anneal to the target sequence and allow a DNA polymerase to synthesize new strands. The resulting amplified DNA can then be used for various applications, such as sequencing or detection of specific mutations. PCR does require DNA replication primers, but they are specific to the target sequence being amplified. PCR also typically uses a DNA polymerase that can withstand high temperatures for denaturation, such as Taq polymerase, which denatures at 95°C, not 55°C.

The Polymerase Chain Reaction