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How does PCR work?

PCR amplifies DNA exponentially. Time and temperature settings affect the results, so it's important to choose suitable parameters.

In the PCR process, the target DNA will amplify samples double times each run, therefore, you will get 109 copies after 30 runs. Within a run, the temperature inside the PCR machine will change after each setting time to make the target DNA denature, anneal and extend. Time and temperature setting will obviously affect the result of PCR, thus, the set value is very important, and it is necessary to refer to the literature or do several tests to choose the most suitable parameter.

Review question: Which temperature is the most appropriate in the PCR procedure (denature, anneal, extend)?

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Molecular Biology: How to Detect Pathogens in Aquaculture

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