Amplification of cDNA generated by reverse transcription of mRNA.

INTRODUCTION In this method, an oligodeoxynucleotide primer hybridized to mRNA is extended by an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to create a cDNA copy that can be amplified by PCR. Depending on the purpose of the experiment, the primer for first-strand cDNA synthesis can be specifically designed to hybridize to a particular target gene, or a general primer such as oligo(dT) can be used to prime cDNA synthesis from essentially all mammalian mRNAs. Similarly, the reverse primer used in the subsequent amplification reaction can be gene-specific or general (e.g., random hexamers). To reduce the chance of contamination with exogenous DNAs, prepare and use a special set of reagents and solutions for PCR only. Bake all glassware for 6 hours at 150°C and autoclave all plasticware.