What does "Rolling Circle Amplification" mean?
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Rolling Circle Amplification (RCA) is a technique used in molecular biology to make many copies of a specific DNA sequence. This process is helpful when scientists want to study or analyze a particular gene or piece of genetic material in greater detail.
How It Works
The process begins with a circular piece of DNA that contains the target sequence. When specific enzymes are added, they start to make new copies of the DNA by moving around the circle, adding more and more building blocks of DNA. As this happens, a long chain of DNA is created, which can be cut into smaller pieces for further analysis.
Why It Matters
RCA is beneficial because it can produce a lot of DNA from a small starting sample. This is especially useful when the original sample has very little DNA, making it hard to study. By using this method, researchers can gather enough material to run tests and experiments, helping them learn more about diseases and other biological processes.