The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cardiovascular diagnosis

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a recently discovered technique of molecular biology that has revolutionized both basic science and clinical research laboratories. Its beautiful simplicity derives from its ability to geometrically amplify a single copy of a DNA sequence to millions of copies in a matter of hours. PCR thus allows both the molecular biologist to clone genes and the clinical pathologist to screen blood samples for human immunodeficiency virus, with rapidity and ease never before available. In this brief review we will discuss the basic technique of the PCR, its applications in the basic science and clinical areas, and further emphasize its current and potential roles in cardiovascular medicine.