PCR – What is it actually?

The abbreviation stands for polymerization of DNA chains, and this technique enables multiple copies of specific DNA sequences. It's like a revolution in the way we study and understand the genetic code of life. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a relatively simple and widely used technique in molecular biology for the amplification and detection of DNA and RNA sequences. Compared to traditional DNA cloning and amplification methods, which often take several days, PCR takes just a few hours. It is very sensitive and requires a minimal matrix to detect and amplify specific sequences.

How does PCR work?

The PCR process is a real dance of genes. A special DNA polymerase is the main star, splitting and copying DNA strands during heating and cooling cycles. It's like a harmonious process in which each step has its place, enabling us to copy genetic material quickly and precisely. This process allows for the detection, analysis and production of large numbers of copies of a specific DNA fragment. Here's how PCR works:

1. Denaturation (Dissolution): The PCR reaction begins by heating the sample to a temperature of approximately 94-98 degrees Celsius. In this process, double-stranded DNA dissolves, i.e. the two strands separate, which is called denaturation. This rolling strand separation is a key step because it allows the polymerase to access one DNA strand.
2. Hybridization (Combining): The reaction temperature is then lowered, typically to about 50-65 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the hybridization process begins, where specially designed primers (short nucleotide sequences) combine with complementary sequences on one of the DNA strands. These primers serve as starting points for DNA polymerase.
3. Elongation (Lengthening): The temperature is raised again, usually to about 72 degrees Celsius. In this step, the activated DNA polymerase begins to synthesize a new DNA chain, using one of the DNA strands as a template. The resulting product is also complementary to the original DNA sequence.

The above three steps (denaturation, hybridization, elongation) constitute one amplification cycle. This process is then repeated several times, leading to an exponential increase in the number of copies of the target DNA sequence. The PCR results can then be analyzed, for example using electrophoresis, DNA sequencing or other methods, depending on the purpose of the study. PCR is used in diagnostics, genetic testing, DNA identification and many other areas of molecular biology.

RT-qPCR – What Does This Complicated Abbreviation Mean?

This is an advanced molecular technique combining reverse transcriptase (RT) and real-time PCR, enabling quantitative analysis of gene expression.

Here's a breakdown of this shortcut:

1. RT (Reverse Transcription): It stands for reverse transcriptase. It is an enzyme that transforms RNA (ribonucleic acid) into complementary DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), creating the so-called cDNA (complementary copy of DNA).
2. qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction): It means quantitative polymerase chain reaction. This is a real-time DNA amplification technique, which means that the process is monitored on an ongoing basis, allowing the exact amount of the initial genetic material to be determined.

RT-qPCR is widely used in molecular biology to measure the amount of mRNA (ribonucleic acid) in biological samples. This allows scientists to understand which genes are activated or deactivated in a given situation, which is important in studies of gene function, genetic diseases, molecular diagnostics and other research areas.

Reverse Transcriptase in RT-qPCR

Real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is a technique used to analyze quantitative gene expression. This process involves converting RNA into its complementary DNA and then amplifying this nucleic acid using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme enabling the synthesis of single-stranded DNA (cDNA) based on an RNA template. In RT-qPCR, the cDNA is then subjected to real-time PCR, where the amount of amplified DNA is monitored during each subsequent round of the reaction.

This method is often used to measure the amount of mRNA in biological samples, allowing scientists to understand what genes are activated or quenched in a given condition. RT-qPCR is also used in molecular diagnostics, genetic disease research, and other areas of molecular biology.

Real Time PCR – Speed ​​and Precision

The speed of real-time PCR is due to the ability to monitor the amount of amplified DNA during the reaction itself. Thanks to special fluorochromes or probes placed in the reaction, it is possible to track the amplification progress in real time. This makes it possible to obtain results in real time or very shortly after the reaction is completed.

The precision of this technique results from the ability to measure the amount of DNA at various stages of the reaction, which allows for an accurate determination of the initial amount of genetic material. Additionally, real-time PCR allows the detection of even small amounts of DNA, which is important in the case of quantitative analyses.

These features make real-time PCR a widely used method in genetic research, molecular diagnostics, gene expression studies, and many other areas of molecular biology where both speed and precision are crucial.

Key Differences Between PCR and RT-qPCR

Now that we know the basics, it's worth diving into the key differences between PCR and RT-qPCR. What distinguishes them is of great importance for the progress of genetic research.

• Nature of Genetic Material

PCR is like a genetic archive, operating on existing DNA. RT-qPCR is like a modern detective, analyzing both DNA and RNA, which gives us a more complete picture of genetic inheritance.

• Sensitivity and Precision

RT-qPCR offers greater sensitivity and precision in the quantitative analysis of genetic material. It's like a precise microscope, allowing us to see even the smallest changes in the genetic code.

• Applications in Diagnostics

PCR is often used in the diagnosis of genetic diseases, but RT-qPCR is like a new era of diagnostics. Gene expression analysis allows us to understand not only the presence of the disease, but also its mechanisms at the genetic level.

Summation

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and RT-qPCR (Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) are two advanced molecular methods that, although they have some similarities, differ significantly in their applications. PCR is a DNA amplification technique that allows multiple copies of specific fragments of genetic material. It is widely used in genetic research, diagnosis of genetic diseases and other areas of molecular biology.

RT-qPCR, in turn, is a combination of two key processes: reverse transcription (RT), which converts RNA into a complementary DNA fragment, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), allowing quantitative analysis of the copied DNA in real time. It is an extremely useful tool for analyzing gene expression, especially mRNA, which allows examining changes in the biological response of cells to various factors.

The differences between PCR and RT-qPCR determine their applications. PCR focuses on DNA amplification, while RT-qPCR is primarily used for precise quantitative analysis of RNA amounts. Therefore, RT-qPCR is irreplaceable in gene expression studies, which allows for close monitoring of changes in the level of gene activity related to various biological processes.

Understanding these techniques is crucial to progress in the field of molecular biology because they enable genetic testing at various levels, which ultimately leads to new discoveries and revolutions in genetics and cell biology.

Plastics for PCR and RT-qPCR

Please visit the Genoplast store, where you will find high-quality laboratory plastics ideal for carrying out PCR and RT-qPCR reactions. Our products are characterized not only by durability and precision, but also meet the highest quality standards. They will make your experiments even more effective and reliable. Our assortment includes a variety of products such as test tubes, PCR and RT-qPCR plates that are essential in the laboratory. Choose professionalism and take advantage of Genoplast's offer to achieve excellent results in your research. 

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Self-adhesive foil for PCR and RT-qPCR Dnase/Rnase and Pyrogen Free

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Tubes for PCR and RT-qPCR in STRIP, Dnase/Rnase and Pyrogen Free

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