Molecular Diagnostics

What is the main purpose of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in molecular diagnostics?

• To measure protein levels in samples

• To amplify specific DNA segments for easier detection and analysis.

• To identify bacterial species in a culture

• To visualize cellular structures under a microscope

Explain the process of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and how it is used in molecular diagnostics.

• NGS is primarily used for environmental testing rather than molecular diagnostics

• NGS results are always straightforward and do not require interpretation

• NGS involves library preparation, sequencing, data analysis, and interpretation of results to provide detailed genetic information for clinical use.

• NGS only involves data analysis without the need for library preparation

How does Real-time PCR differ from traditional PCR methods?

• Real-time PCR is slower than traditional PCR methods

• Real-time PCR provides real-time detection and quantification of PCR amplification, while traditional PCR methods require post-amplification analysis.

• Real-time PCR does not provide quantification of PCR amplification

• Real-time PCR requires post-amplification analysis

What is the role of primers in a PCR reaction?

• Primers in a PCR reaction are unnecessary and can be skipped.

• Primers in a PCR reaction help amplify RNA instead of DNA.

• Primers in a PCR reaction help initiate DNA synthesis by providing a starting point for DNA polymerase to bind and begin copying the target DNA region.

• Primers in a PCR reaction are used to detect mutations in the DNA template.

Describe the steps involved in a typical PCR cycle.

a

b

c

Seperation

Extension

Annealing

Remodelling

Addition

Denaturation

What are the advantages of Next Generation Sequencing over traditional Sanger Sequencing?

• Lower throughput, slower turnaround time, inability to detect rare variants

• Inability to analyze multiple samples simultaneously, higher cost per base, limited throughput

• Longer turnaround time, higher cost, limited sample analysis

• Higher throughput, faster turnaround time, lower cost per base, ability to detect rare variants, capability to analyze multiple samples simultaneously

Explain the concept of allele-specific PCR and its utility in identifying genetic mutations.

• Allele-specific PCR is not applicable in identifying genetic variations

• Allele-specific PCR can only detect homozygous mutations

• Allele-specific PCR is a technique used for cloning genes

• Allele-specific PCR is a technique to selectively amplify DNA sequences with specific alleles, aiding in identifying genetic mutations.

Abbreviate VNTR

DNA finger printing is used in

• Conservation of wild life

• Pedigree analysis

• Anthropological studies

• Forensic analysis

Who's the suspect in this case?