Diagnostic DNA amplification no respite for the elusive parasite

In the [Formula: see text] years since its addition to the 'molecular biology bag of tricks', in vitro DNA amplification by the polymerase chain reaction has made a considerable impact on medical research. A breakthrough into the field of molecular parasitology is now imminent - especially through the use of thermostoble DNA polymerise. In this introduction Maarten de Brujin discusses the general principles of the method together with recent technical improvements, suggesting some potential applications for diagnosis of parasitic diseases and some of the pitfalls that may be anticipated.