Because PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is far simpler and less expensive than previous techniques for analyzing DNA, PCR has "democratized" genetic research. It has become one of the most widely used techniques in molecular biology: from the daily practicalities of medical diagnosis to the courts of law in a variety of different purposes, such as:

• Diagnosing specific genetic conditions or illnesses
• Predicting how well an individual will respond to medication
• Identifying viruses
• Connecting a specific suspect to a crime
• Establishing maternity, paternity
• Determining the identity of a deceased person
   

Background Information

• The Polymerase Chain Reaction - A scientific success story
  PDF, 86 KB
   

Available images

PCR Cycle - Step 1 - Denaturation by Heat
JPEG, 31,3 KB
 
 

PCR Cycle - Step 2 - Annealing of Primer Pairs to the Ends of the Target Sequence
JPEG, 82,8 KB
 

PCR Cycle - Step 3 - Taq DNA Polymerase Catalyses Primer Extension as Complementary Nucleotides are Incorporated - JPEG, 62,7 KB
 

Video

• The first automated System for PCR testing
   

All photo and/or video material is provided courtesy of Roche Diagnostics, Copyright F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.