PCR: Testing and Procedure

Definition:

PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reactions. It is a test used to detect a specific type of genetic material, especially viruses. PCR is used to diagnose infectious diseases at early stages. It is also used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 the virus that causes Covid-19.

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Developed by:

The polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique was developed by an American Biochemist Dr. Kary Mullis in 1983. Many people have become familiar with the PCR test due to Covid-19

Characteristics of PCR:

• Before the development of PCR, scientists used to take a large amount of DNA for molecular and genetic testing.
• PCR technique allowed scientists to test for the presence of virus from a small amount of DNA.
• It can duplicate the DNA and replicate millions of copies from a small amount of DNA.
• It is a quick and accurate way of detecting the presence of a virus using small segments of the genetic material.

Uses of PCR:

1. Other than diagnosing Covid-19, PCR has many medical uses.
2. It is used for the detection of a small number of cancer cells.
3. PCR is also used to detect the incurable disease called HIV.
4. This technique was used to diagnose the Ebola virus.
5. It is also used for the detection of hepatitis C and tuberculosis in the body.

Working of PCR:

The PCR test requires three steps to conduct. These three steps are discussed below:

1. Collection Of Samples: The first step is to collect the testing samples through your nose. It is carried with the help of a swab. A swab is a long, flexible tube, that goes inside the nose and collects the samples from the nostrils or nasal cavity.
2. Extraction Of Samples: After the test samples are extracted from the nose. It is then sent to a laboratory where they heat up the samples. This allows the genetic samples (pathogens) to be separated from the rest of the sample material.
3.  The PCR Technique: In this step, a PCR machine called thermal cycle and enzymes are used. A series of heating and cooling cycles are carried out that increases the amount of genetic material obtained from the test tube. After the amplification of genetic materials, a chemical is released in the test tube that produces a fluorescent light if the SARS-COV-2 virus is detected.

Types of PCR Test:

On the basis of the type of sample obtained from the body. PCR tests are divided into the following types.

1. Nasal Swab: The type of PCR that involves samples through swabbing from the back of the nose and throat.
2. Nasal mid Swab: This type of test involves samples obtained from deep inside the nostril.
3. Saliva: This involves samples by spitting in the test tube.
4. Blood: The type of PCR in which blood samples are taken from the vein.

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