Question:

Which of the following is not an application of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)?

Updated On: Nov 13, 2025
  • Detection of gene mutation

  • Molecular diagnosis

  • Gene amplification

  • Purification of isolated protein

Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used in molecular biology to amplify DNA sequences. It is a fundamental method used in various applications due to its ability to amplify a small amount of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating millions or billions of copies of a particular DNA sequence.

Let's analyze each option to see why it is or is not an application of PCR:

  1. Detection of gene mutation: PCR can be used to amplify DNA segments, which are then analyzed for the presence of mutations. This makes the technique highly useful for genetic testing and research, identifying specific mutations linked to diseases or conditions.
  2. Molecular diagnosis: PCR is extensively used in molecular diagnostics, including identifying pathogens by amplifying their genetic material. It aids in diagnosing infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and even in forensic investigations.
  3. Gene amplification: The primary purpose of PCR itself is gene amplification. It is used to create multiple copies of a segment of DNA, allowing detailed study and manipulation in various research and clinical applications.
  4. Purification of isolated protein: This step is not an application of PCR. PCR is involved in amplifying DNA, not proteins. Protein purification requires different biochemical techniques such as chromatography, electrophoresis, or centrifugation.

Conclusion: Based on the explanation above, the correct answer is Purification of isolated protein as it does not involve the application of PCR.

Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Concepts Used:

DNA Fingerprinting

​​DNA fingerprinting, also called DNA typing, DNA profiling, genetic fingerprinting, genotyping, or identity testing, in genetics, method of isolating and identifying variable elements within the base-pair sequence of DNA.

The procedure of DNA Fingerprinting:

The procedure for creating a DNA fingerprint consists of first obtaining a sample of cells, such as skin, hair, or blood cells, which contain DNA. The DNA is extracted from the cells and purified. In Jeffreys’s original approach, which was based on restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technology, the DNA was then cut at specific points along the strand with proteins known as restriction enzymes. The enzymes produced fragments of varying lengths that were sorted by placing them on a gel and then subjecting the gel to an electric current (electrophoresis): the shorter the fragment, the more quickly it moved toward the positive pole (anode). The sorted double-stranded DNA fragments were then subjected to a blotting technique in which they were split into single strands and transferred to a nylon sheet. The fragments underwent autoradiography in which they were exposed to DNA probes—pieces of synthetic DNA that were made radioactive and that bound to the minisatellites. A piece of X-ray film was then exposed to the fragments, and a dark mark was produced at any point where a radioactive probe had become attached. The resultant pattern of marks could then be analyzed.