Real-time PCR: advantages and limitations

Abstract

Polymerase chain reaction has become one of the key methods currently used in molecular research and diagnostics. The need for additional post-amplification detection steps significantly increases the time and contamination risks, leading to false positives. These disadvantages are not present in real-time PCR, which is becoming the main tool for nucleic acid quantification today.    This review discusses real-time PCR technology, describing the basic principles of the technology, the strategies used to realize fluorescence, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the technology, as well as current applications in various fields.