Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

Principle

This experiment is designed to teach PCR laboratory techniques in a forensic context. In addition, students also learn about the hereditary disease cystic fibrosis and the links between genes and disease, personal identification and the use of biotechnology for genetic analysis.

Benefits

• Complete set including all necessary consumables

• Consumables can be purchased separately as a kit

• Ready to use: the DNA samples can be used directly in the PCR with minimal effort

• Well-documented, simple experiment procedure

Tasks

1. Sample preparation for PCR

2. Creating a PCR programme on a thermocycler

3. Performing a PCR

4. Sample preparation for analysing the band patterns after gel electrophoresis

Learning objectives

• PCR and its laboratory techniques, such as micropipetting

• PCR as tool of acquiring evidence in forensics

• The hereditary disease cystic fibrosis

To perform subsequent gel electrophoresis, a gel electrophoresis device is required. We recommend the student set TESS Genetics (15312-88).