How is a PCR DNA test done for CSI?
PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction. That really revolutionized forensic DNA analysis. With the advent of PCR, which came about in the 1990s, the forensic scientists were able to duplicate or replicate DNA to the point where we can detect maybe 18 or so cells. Just think about that, 18 cells are generally required for a DNA analysis, and that is due to the fact that PCR is, we call it a Xeroxing or replication where it takes a very small amount of DNA and just keeps multiplying it. And that’s what’s giving rise to the tremendous sensitivity associated with DNA analysis. PCR is the wonder technology of the crime lab of the 21st century.
