Question

State the advantage of using Thermostable DNA polymerase.

Answer 1

Taq polymerase is frequently used in PCR to amplify target DNA because it processes several advantages, such as:

1. Thermostability: A bacterium found in hot springs produces Taq polymerase, a thermostable DNA polymerase. It can endure the high temperature of > 90°C necessary for the PCR reducing stage and still maintain its enzyme activity after each cycle.
2. Efficiency: Normal DNA polymerases are unable to tolerate the high temperatures in PCR since their optimal operating temperature is around 37°C. After each cycle, new enzymes must be introduced, requiring vast quantities of DNA polymerase and constant handling throughout the PCR procedure. Taq polymerase continues to show enzymatic activity following each high-temperature cycle, which greatly increases efficiency and lowers the cost.
3. High amplification capacity: The ideal range for Taq polymerase's enzymatic activity is between 75 and 80°C. At 72°C, it can replicate a 1000 base pair segment of DNA in less than ten seconds after it achieves its optimum temperature.

Answer 2

Using thermostable DNA polymerase has the advantage of being active at high temperatures and avoiding DNA denaturation during PCR. This technology enables automated and repeatable PCR without the need for additional enzymes.