The enzyme used in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is:
## **Core Concept**
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a laboratory technique used to amplify specific segments of DNA. This process requires an enzyme that can withstand high temperatures and synthesize DNA strands. The key to PCR is the use of a thermostable DNA polymerase.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Taq polymerase**, is a thermostable DNA polymerase derived from the bacterium *Thermus aquaticus*. It is ideal for PCR because it can withstand the high temperatures (around 95°C) needed for DNA denaturation without losing its activity. Taq polymerase synthesizes the new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to the template strand, effectively amplifying the target DNA sequence.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** While *E. coli* DNA polymerase is a well-known enzyme in molecular biology, it is not thermostable and thus not suitable for PCR.
- **Option B:** This option is not specified, but any non-thermostable polymerase or an incorrect enzyme name would not be suitable for PCR.
- **Option D:** This option is also not specified, but similar to Option B, any incorrect enzyme would not have the necessary properties for PCR.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A crucial point to remember is that the thermostability of **Taq polymerase** is what allows the PCR process to cycle through high-temperature denaturation steps. This has revolutionized genetic testing, forensic analysis, and research by enabling the rapid amplification of DNA sequences.
## **Correct Answer:** . Taq polymerase