Question

Read the paragraph given below and answer and questions that follow:

Enzyme Taq polymerase, is extracted from a eubacterial microorganism Thermus aquaticus from Yellowstone National Park in Montana, USA and isolated by Chien et al. (1976). Taq polymerase successfully replaced the DNA polymerase from E.coli that was being used in PCR earlier and this shift revolutionised the PCR technique.

1. Taq polymerase after its discovery replaced E.coli DNA polymerase in PCR technique. Explain giving reasons why was the need felt for the change?
2. What is a primer and its importance in PCR?
3. Write the importance of PCR as a diagnostic tool.

Answer 1

1. Taq polymerase was found to be an enzyme that could survive the protein-denaturing temperatures needed for PCR. Thus, it took the place of the DNA polymerase from E. coli that was initially utilised in PCR.
2. Primers are required for the polymerase chain reaction because they kick off the DNA polymerase enzyme's activity.
3. Because they may frequently make diagnoses before signs of infection appear, PCR tests play a critical role in limiting the spread of infections. They are an accurate and reliable tool for diagnosing many infectious diseases.