polymerase chain reaction

(puh-LIM-eh-rayz ...) A laboratory method used to make many copies of a specific DNA sequence. Also called PCR.

(Abbreviation: PCR). A widespread molecular biology procedure that allows the production of multiple copies (amplification ) of a specific, provided that the base pair sequence of each end of the target is known. It involves multiple cycles of DNA denaturation, primer annealing, and strand extension, and requires a thermostable DNA polymerase, deoxyribonucleotides, and specific oligonucleotide s (primers).