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A Practical Approach for Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, the Gold Standard in Microbiological Diagnosis

Authors :
Tímea Mosolygó
Krisztián Laczi
Gabriella Spengler
Katalin Burián
Source :
Sci, Vol 4, Iss 1, p 4 (2022)
Publication Year :
2022
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2022.

Abstract

From gene expression studies to identifying microbes, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is widely used in research and medical diagnostics. In transmittable diseases like the Ebola outbreak in West Africa (2014–2016), or the present SARS-CoV2 pandemic qPCR plays a key role in the detection of infected patients. Although the technique itself is decades old with reliable approaches (e.g., TaqMan assay) in the diagnosis of pathogens many people showed distrust in it during the SARS-CoV2 outbreak. This came mainly from not understanding or misunderstanding the principles of qPCR. This situation motivated us to design a simple laboratory practical class, in which students have opportunities to understand the underlying principles of qPCR and its advantages in microbiological diagnosis. Moreover, during the exercise, students can develop skills such as handling experimental assays, and the ability to solve problems, discuss their observations. Finally, this activity brings them closer to the clinical practice and they can see the impact of the science on real life. The class is addressed to undergraduate students of biological sciences.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
24134155
Volume :
4
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Sci
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.1bb10be22c7f4512a376a67e0924c1da
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/sci4010004