It allows scientists to quickly make many copies of DNA.
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The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) allows for the rapid amplification of specific DNA regions, increasing the amount of DNA available for analysis in DNA fingerprinting. This amplification step helps to overcome limitations posed by small or degraded DNA samples, making the analysis more reliable. The ability to generate large amounts of DNA copies helps in accurately detecting and comparing genetic variations, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of DNA fingerprinting results.
PCR
Polymerase chain reaction
DNA fingerprinting uses variants in DNA sequences to create a unique profile for each individual, while the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences. PCR is commonly used in DNA fingerprinting to amplify regions of interest in the DNA sample before further analysis. This amplification step allows for better detection and characterization of DNA variations used in DNA fingerprinting.
The polymerase used in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is typically derived from a thermophilic bacterium called Thermus aquaticus. The specific polymerase most commonly used is Taq polymerase, which is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures required for PCR.
Polymerase chain reaction