Question

What are some of the biomedical applications of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)?

Answer 1

Mentioned below are only few of the applications of Polymerase Chain Reaction in the field of biomedicine.

Genetic Testing:

Sample DNA from the subjects is tested for the presence of mutations underlying genetic disorders. Early detection of genetic birth defects can be achieved and the prospective parents appropriately informed. 

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD):

For couples with potential offspring having  risk of  genetic diseases PGD testing is done at the preimplantation stage oocytes or embryos.

Tissue Typing: 

Tissues are tested for compatibility between donor and recipient which is important for organ transplantation. 

Gene changes in cancer:

Testing is done to identify specific genetic alterations so that appropriate therapeutic regimen that is patient specific can be given. 

Infectious disease applications:

Like that of HIV infection, Tuberculosis disease etc. 

Dentistry Diagnosis:

Testing to enable diagnosis of microbes underlying maxillofacial infections.

PCR Biomedical Applications: Genetic Testing, Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), Tissue Typing, Gene changes in cancer, Infectious disease applications, Dentistry Diagnosis etc.