Biology / Unit 7 Bio 1525 short lesson, about 20 seconds
PCR: Amplifying a Target DNA Sequence
Captions available
The idea
PCR amplifies one specific DNA region into many copies, using primers flanking the target and a heat-stable DNA polymerase.
In practice
Two short primers bind opposite ends of the target sequence, and repeated heating and cooling cycles copy that stretch exponentially.
Where people slip
PCR amplifies only the sequence its primers flank — it does not copy the whole genome indiscriminately.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Something wrong in this lesson? Flag it · Sources for Biology