Chapter 2

The most widely used method in biotechnology is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR provides a way to quickly and accurately identify a specific DNA sequence and then make multiple copies of that sequence. In this chapter, students learn about the multiple uses of PCR and then carry out the PCR to confirm the identity of the plasmid provided.

In Chapter 2, students use PCR to amplify sections of the non-recombinant plasmid and the recombinant plasmid with red fluorescent protein gene (rfp). The sizes of the amplified sequences in each plasmid vary and therefore can be used to identify the two plasmids.

Lab 2.1 Checking Plasmid with PCR

Lab 2.2 Confirmation by Gel Electrophoresis (PCR products)