Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT-qPCR)

Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT-qPCR) is a laboratory technique used to detect and measure specific RNA molecules, such as those from viruses or gene transcripts. First, reverse transcriptase enzyme converts RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA). Then, quantitative PCR amplifies this cDNA, copying it repeatedly. As the DNA copies increase, fluorescent dyes or probes track the process in real-time, allowing precise measurement of the original RNA amount. RT-qPCR is sensitive, specific, and fast, making it essential for diagnosing infections, studying gene expression, and research in molecular biology.