POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION

In-House Polymerase Chain Reaction Testing

NorthStar Healthcare offers in-house polymerase chain reaction testing at both of our locations in Cordova and McMinnville, Tenn.

Our focus is on treating the whole patient and not just a list of symptoms, and PCR testing is one of the most advanced techniques that allows us to do just that.

What is Polymerase Chain Reaction?

Polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, is a quick and cost-effective method to analyze a short sequence of DNA or RNA. Through PCR, small amounts of DNA that may be present in the blood, hair or tissues, can be copied so that there is enough for analysis.

PCR is valuable in the detection of bacteria or viruses (particularly sexually-transmitted infections), and the diagnosis of genetic disorders. It is also used by biologists and forensics specialists for DNA fingerprinting, the study of human evolution, and to establish paternity or biological relationships.

How does PCR work?

In order to amplify, or copy, a segment of DNA using PCR, the sample is first heated so that it splits into two pieces of single-stranded DNA. Then, an enzyme is used to build two new strands of DNA using the original strands as templates.

The result is the duplication of the original DNA with each of the new strands containing one old and one new strand of DNA. Using these strands, the process is then repeated upwards of 30 to 40 times until more than one billion exact copies of the original DNA segment are created.

The entire process of PCR can be completed in just a few hours, whereas previous diagnostic technology could take several weeks.

PCR at NorthStar Healthcare

At NorthStar Primary Care, PCR is primarily used to help us accurately diagnose and treat chronic diseases and conditions. In many cases, PCR allows us to detect diseases earlier than other tests and as you know early detection can significantly impact treatment outcomes.