Primer Extension Assay
The Primer Extension Assay is a laboratory method used for diagnosing genetic diseases and for studying genetic mutation. It involves the analysis of a sample of DNA through the use of sequence-specific primers and a polymerase enzyme. A primer is a short sequence of nucleotides that serves as a guide to the polymerase, allowing it to ‘read’ the sequence of the DNA template. The process involves the polymerase enzyme adding a complementary nucleotide to the primer’s 3’ end, thus ‘primer extension’. By analysing the sequence of the extended primers, researchers can detect genetic mutations, which can then be used to diagnose genetic diseases or study their development. This method is also used in forensic science to identify the source of DNA samples. Primer Extension Assays are powerful tools in research and medical diagnostics, as they are relatively quick and cost-efficient, and provide detailed and accurate results.
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