PCR test (Ang. Polymerase Chain Reaction) is one of the most advanced and sensitive diagnostic methods used in laboratories around the world. It allows for detecting the presence of genetic material, such as DNA and/ or RNA, which allows for the diagnosis of diseases of various origins – from bacterial and viral infections to parasitic diseases and cancers. Application PCR methods is a revolution in the field of genetic and molecular research, which enables extremely precise analysis of genetic material collected from a patient.

What is PCR testing?

PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, is a technique that allows the reproduction of a specific fragment DNA and/ or RNA in millions of copies. Thanks to this method, even a small amount of genetic material is sufficient to perform diagnostic analysis. This process involves repeated heating and cooling of the sample, which allows for replication of the selected DNA fragment. The key role is played by the enzyme polymerase, which is responsible for building new DNA strands based on the original template.

PCR testing consists of several cycles – usually 30-40 – during which specific fragments of genetic material are replicated multiple times (for example, PCR plastics). To see the replicated material, special molecular dyes are used that make the replicated molecules visible. PCR is characterized by extremely high with tenderness, which allows you to detect even the smallest amounts genetic material pathogens.

Application of PCR tests

The PCR method has found wide application in the diagnosis of many diseases. These tests are used to detect various pathogens – viruses, bacteria, parasites (microbiologist) – and also for genetic analyses. PCR is particularly appreciated for its accuracy and tenderness, which makes it one of the most effective diagnostic methods.

Viral diagnostics – PCR testing is widely used to identify viral infections such as COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In the case of viral infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, or HIV infection, the PCR method allows for rapid and precise detection of the presence of the virus in the body.

Bacterial and parasitic diagnostics – PCR is also irreplaceable in diagnosing bacteria such as Chlamydia trachomatis and tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease. This test is also successfully used in diagnosing parasites such as Giardia lamblia.

Genetic and cancer diseases – PCR is also used in genetic testing to identify hereditary diseases and in cancer screening. PCR can detect gene mutations that can lead to cancer.

What does a PCR test look like?

PCR test can be made from various biological materials taken from the patient. Most often, the test is performed krew, swabs from the throat, nasopharynx, cervix or urethra, as well as urine. The selection of the appropriate material for testing depends on the diagnostic purpose, i.e. which pathogen is to be detected.

For people undergoing the test, it is important that special preparations are not always required. For example, when taking blood, the patient does not have to fast. In the case of tests such as a throat swab, it is recommended to avoid brushing your teeth before the test, while for urethral swabs, you should refrain from urinating for an hour before the test.

The PCR test process involves several key stages. After collecting the patient's sample, a reaction mixture is prepared in the laboratory, which includes: the patient's sample, primers, nucleotides, DNA polymerase and buffer. Primers are specially designed DNA fragments that "recognize" the genetic material fragment being sought. Then, a chain reaction is carried out, during which a specific DNA or RNA fragment is repeatedly duplicated.

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The laboratory also uses internal controls to exclude false positives that may result from contamination of the material. This is a key element in ensuring high reliability of results.

PCR in COVID-19 diagnostics

Pandemic COVID-19 made the research PCR have become widely known, especially in the context of detecting infections coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. PCR tests for COVID-19 are currently one of the most important diagnostic methods used worldwide. They allow for the detection of the genetic material of the virus in a swab taken from the nasopharynx or throat. Compared to other methods, such as antigen tests, PCR is characterized by higher sensitivity and accuracy, which minimizes the risk of false negative results.

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PCR tests can detect infection even at an early stage, when the number of viruses in the body is still small. This is crucial in combating the spread of the disease and taking rapid preventive measures.

When is it worth doing a PCR test?

PCR test it is worth doing in situations where fast and accurate diagnosis of infection is necessary. If you suspect a viral, bacterial or parasitic infection, PCR can provide precise results that will allow for appropriate treatment. This test is also irreplaceable in cases of genetic and cancer diseases, where the accuracy of detecting genetic abnormalities counts.

PCR is also recommended in situations where other diagnostic methods, such as serological tests, may not provide sufficiently precise results. Due to tenderness and the ability to detect genetic material even in very small quantities, PCR is one of the most reliable methods.

Advantages of PCR testing

method PCR It has many advantages that make it widely used in diagnostics:

  • High sensitivity and accuracy – PCR enables the detection of genetic material at very low concentrations, which makes it extremely accurate.
  • Speed – PCR test results can be obtained in a relatively short time, which is crucial in diagnosing infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
  • Versatility – PCR can be used to detect a variety of pathogens, from viruses to bacteria and parasites, as well as in genetic analyses.

Summation

PCR test is one of the most important diagnostic tools of modern medicine. Thanks to its high tenderness and versatility, this method allows for precise detection of pathogens and genetic analysis. It is used not only in the diagnosis of viral infections, such as COVID-19, but also in research on bacterial, parasitic and neoplastic diseases. PCR It is an irreplaceable method that allows for quick and precise diagnosis, which is of great importance for the health of patients.

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