Lab method
PCR
Amplifies target nucleic acid
P-C-R
High-yield clue
Denature, anneal, extend is the core cycle memory hook.
Overview
A molecular technique concept used to amplify target nucleic acid sequences for research and diagnostic vocabulary used in coursework.
Classification
- Molecular method
- Amplification concept
Lab & identification clues
- Thermal cycling
- Primers
- Polymerase
- qPCR Ct vocabulary
- RNA targets need a reverse-transcription step first (RT-PCR)
Associations
- Viral load concepts
- Pathogen detection vocabulary
- Microbial genetics
Commonly confused with
- ELISA
- Culture
- Sequencing
Your notes
Original concept summary for coursework. Sources checked: OpenStax Microbiology 2e and NCBI Bookshelf Medical Microbiology; reviewed 2026-06. Describes vocabulary and interpretation concepts only; not a lab protocol and not for handling specimens or identifying patient isolates.