Which enzyme is used in PCR?

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

Q: Which enzyme is used in PCR?

ANS:

  • Heat-stable DNA polymerase also known as Taq polymerase is commonly used in PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction).
  • Taq polymerase is derived from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus, which lives in hot springs and thermal vents.
  • It is highly heat-resistant and can withstand the high temperatures required during the PCR process.
EnzymeTaq Polymerase
SourceThermus aquaticus bacterium
FunctionDNA polymerase used in PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
Optimal TemperatureAround 72-75°C
DNA SynthesisIncorporates nucleotides to extend DNA strands
DNA AmplificationAllows repeated cycles of denaturation, annealing, and extension
ApplicationUsed in various molecular biology techniques and diagnostics
Commercial AvailabilityWidely available from multiple suppliers
Alternative EnzymesOther heat-stable DNA polymerases with improved characteristics are available

Important Questions about Enzymes

  1. Enzymes MCQs
  2. Inhibition in enzymes
  3. Which enzyme digests starch?
  4. Which enzyme digests protein?
  5. which enzyme is present in saliva?
  6. Which enzyme is not present in succus entericus?
  7. Which enzyme breaks down protein in the stomach?
  8. Which enzyme converts fibrinogen to fibrin?
  9. Which enzyme converts glucose into alcohol?
  10. Which enzyme digests fat?
  11. Which enzyme digests milk protein?
  12. Which enzyme is used in PCR?
  13. Which enzyme unzips the DNA double helix?
  14. Which liver enzyme increases with alcohol?
  15. Which enzyme cuts DNA?
  16. Which enzyme catalyzes the first step of glycolysis?
  17. Which enzyme binds DNA fragments together?
  18. Which enzyme transcribes DNA into RNA?
  19. which enzyme adds new nucleotides?
  20. Which enzyme digests cellulose?
  21. Which enzyme separates the two strands of DNA?
  22. Which enzyme converts carbohydrates into glucose?
  23. Which enzyme removes RNA primer?
  24. Which enzymes help in digestion?
  25. Which enzyme works best in acidic conditions?
  26. Which enzyme synthesizes tRNA?
  27. Which enzyme secreted by pancreas?
  28. Which enzyme converts maltose into glucose?
  29. Which vitamins work as coenzyme?