DNA Amplification

Eric: Are you sure this technique is used to amplify DNA? I remember that DNA amplification is most commonly achieved through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

You: That’s right, I remember now. PCR is a process that exponentially replicates specific DNA sequences. PCR utilizes DNA polymerase enzymes to synthesize new DNA strands from a template, guided by specific primers. This technique does not involve the cutting action of restriction endonucleases, as it focuses on copying existing DNA sequences rather than fragmenting them.

Eric: Is PCR even useful in forensic science?

You: It sure is, for example, PCR enables the amplification of specific regions of DNA from minute amounts of biological material, such as a drop of blood, a single hair follicle, or trace amounts of skin cells found at a crime scene. This amplification is crucial for obtaining enough DNA to perform detailed analyses.

Eric: That makes sense. Well, let’s go back to restriction endonuclease digestion of DNA. It’s a good thing we decided to revise our notes after all, let’s read more about this and see how this technique works and what it can be used for.

What is an important application of this technique?