Pcr primers play a significant role in genomics. They are single-stranded segments of DNA, designed to complement the process of the target sequence being amplified. Pcr primers dictate how DNA gets copied and the sequence. They are the main determinants of Pcr specificity and are vital to amplifying a specific DNA sequence. There are different types of Pcr primers used in genomics, and all play different roles.
These include;
1.Degenerate primers
Degenerate primers are a common type of oligonucleotide used in polymerase chain reactions. Their main role is to amplify DNA sequences that are very similar but not identical. These primers feature a mix of various nucleotides at different positions and allow for the amplification of multiple related sequences. They are essential when an exact DNA sequence is unknown or when amplifying genes from species with similar sequences. Degenerate primers have various key features and are represented by nucleotide codes such as R, Y, and N.
2. Forward and reverse primers
Forward reverse primers are also used in polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and other DNA amplification applications. They are short DNA sequences, usually 18-25 nucleotides vital for initiating replication process. They offer a starting point for DNA synthesis by the DNA polymerase enzyme.
The forward and the reverse primer work differently, the forward primer binds to the third end of the template strand and moves to the fifth, then to the third direction. Similarly, the reverse primer binds to the complementary strand and moves in the opposite direction.
Both primers are useful in the amplification process, especially when amplifying a specific part of the DNA.
3. Nested primers
Nested primers are used in a specific type of polymerase chain reaction referred to as nested PCR. During DNA amplification, they enhance the specificity and sensitivity of the amplification process, by minimizing the chances of non-specific amplification.
Nested primers have many applications and are commonly used in clinical diagnostics to detect pathogens from clinical samples. They are also useful in genetic studies in the amplification of specific genetic sequences. Nested primers also help identify rare mutations in DNA sequences, and are useful in mutation analysis.
4. Universal primers
Universal primers target conserved areas of DNA in a wide range of genes. They are commonly used in phylogenetics and metagenomics for the amplification of conserve gene regions such as rRNA.
Universal primers have different characteristics, they ensure specific binding unlike specific primers, and can bind to conserved regions of genes. They are designed for various applications and are based on conserved sequences within a group of organisms ie, plants, bacteria, animals, etc.
5. Tailed primers
Tailed primers are short nucleotide sequences with an additional stretch of nucleotides, normally called tails. The tails are attached on one end and serve specific functions in sequencing process or amplification. Tails are useful for introducing mutations, adding restriction sites, or tagging in sequences. The common types of tailed primers include linkers, adapters, and universal primers.
Conclusion
Pcr primers are useful in DNA sequencing and amplification and are classified according to their uses. Learn more about this from leading genomics companies to understand the power of DNA from the experts.
