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Question
What is the function of the polymerase chain reaction in genetic engineering?
Options
Cut DNA into many fragments
Carry DNA into a new cell
Link together newly joined fragments of DNA
Make millions of copies of a specific segment of DNA
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Solution
Make millions of copies of a specific segment of DNA
Explanation:
The function of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in genetic engineering is to make millions of copies of a specific segment of DNA. This amplification process improves the chances of successful gene transfer by creating multiple copies of the DNA of interest in vitro using primers and the enzyme DNA polymerase. PCR involves repeated cycles of denaturation, primer annealing, and extension to exponentially amplify the target DNA sequence rapidly. This technique is fundamental for cloning, genetic fingerprinting, and other molecular applications in genetic engineering.
