Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

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

Version 1 : Received: 22 September 2021 / Approved: 24 September 2021 / Online: 24 September 2021 (09:04:57 CEST)

A peer-reviewed article of this Preprint also exists.

Mosolygó, T.; Laczi, K.; Spengler, G.; Burián, K. A Practical Approach for Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, the Gold Standard in Microbiological Diagnosis. Sci 2022, 4, 4. Mosolygó, T.; Laczi, K.; Spengler, G.; Burián, K. A Practical Approach for Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, the Gold Standard in Microbiological Diagnosis. Sci 2022, 4, 4.

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 (eg. TaqMan essay) 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.

Keywords

laboratory practical class; undergraduate teaching; qPCR

Subject

Biology and Life Sciences, Immunology and Microbiology

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