The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) protocol that is currently used in laboratories was facilitated by the discovery of a bacterium called Thermus aquaticus in a hot spring inside Yellowstone National Park, in Wyoming. This organism contains a heat-stable form of DNA polymerase known as Taq polymerase, which continues to function even after it has been heated to 95°C. Why would such a heat-stable polymerase be beneficial in PCR?
◦ Each cycle includes a "hot" denaturation phase (95°C), which serves to sterilize the culture.
◦ Each cycle includes a "hot" denaturation phase (95°C), which activates the Taq polymerase.
◦ Each cycle includes a "hot" saturation phase (95°C), which allows the primers to anneal to the target DNA.
◦ Each cycle includes a "hot" denaturation phase (95°C), which separates the hydrogen bonds that hold the strands of the template DNA together.
◦ More than one of the above are correct.
Chain of Infection
The electron transport chain.
Regular Ways to Fold the Polypeptide Chain
Reaction 1: The Initial Dehydrogenation
What is the value of the equilibrium constant, K, at 25°C for the reaction?
Draw a full and complete mechanism for the following reaction shown below.