Polymerase Chain Reaction, known by its acronym PCR, is a laboratory test that helps to reproduce or amplify billions of copies of a specific DNA segment in order to study it in detail. PCR uses short synthetic DNA fragments, called primers, to choose a segment of the genome to be replicated (amplified) and then uses multiple DNA synthesis sessions to amplify that segment.
Immediately after amplification, the DNA obtained by PCR is used for various laboratory procedures and clinical techniques, such as, for example, mapping of the human genome project, forensic analysis, paternity testing, diagnosis of genetic disorders, detection of microorganisms such as salmonella, AIDS, hepatitis or COVID-19.
The Polymerase Chain Reaction technique has been used in laboratories for a long time in various health crises related to infectious diseases, however, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this test has become even more widespread and well known. According to the World Health Organization, PCR is considered the most reliable diagnostic test that determines whether or not a patient has COVID-19.
Polymerase Chain Reaction for the detection of COVID 19
The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is used for the diagnosis of the COVID-19 virus in patients, because it allows the detection of a fragment of genetic material of the pathogenic agent. This test has become a fundamental piece of simple and rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is SARS-CoV-2, which is part of the “Coronavirus” family of viruses. The PCR test is used by professionals to diagnose this virus by collecting a sample of nasal and oral fluid using a long or short swab, depending on whether the sample is taken from the nose or throat, in order to detect the presence of the genetic material of the virus (RNA).
Professionals advise that the sample should be taken between the third and seventh day after having had COVID-19 symptoms, since that period of time is the period of infection where there is greater viral activity, making it easier to find the virus in the sample taken from the patient. Finally, test results can be available in a few minutes or in about 1 to 3 days, depending on the laboratory where the test is performed.
PCR thermal cycler
The thermal cycler, also known as thermal sequencer, is a laboratory apparatus that allows amplification of DNA molecules through the technique of “Polymerase Chain Reaction” or PCR. It works by temperature cycles through which the amplification of this nucleic acid takes place. PCR allows a small amount of DNA molecules to be amplified many times, this technique is an automatic process that takes a few hours and is carried out by the thermocycler, which is programmed to change the reaction temperature in each of the cycles to which the sample containing DNA is subjected.
A conventional thermal cycler consists of a block of electrical resistance that, by means of a plate, allows the temperature to increase and remain homogeneous during the PCR test cycles. This equipment can be programmed and, in general, works at a temperature between 4°C and 96°C. It has its application in various areas, such as medicine, paleontology, forensic sciences and biology, among others.
Kalstein PCR thermal cycler
In Kalstein, we have a high range of laboratory equipment useful in the area of science and medicine, our thermal cyclers are of great quality and technology, this we assure you because we are MANUFACTURERS of them. In addition to quality, we have the best PRICES in the market. If you are interested in BUYING some of our thermal cyclers available for sale, you can find a variety of models in our catalog by visiting the following link HERE. Our YR series real time PCR has the following features:
- Innovative optical design.
- Two-channel (YR01869-1/2) and five-channel (YR01869-1/2) fluorescence detection system with LED light source and high-resolution CCDs.
- The optical system automatically collects data from all wells during data acquisition at the same time.
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