Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)

Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is a laboratory technique used to detect and measure specific RNA molecules, such as viral genetic material. It works by first converting RNA into DNA using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. Then, the DNA is amplified—copied repeatedly—through a process called PCR, making millions of copies. This allows scientists to identify the presence of specific RNA sequences with high sensitivity, which is especially useful in diagnosing infections like COVID-19. RT-PCR is a powerful tool for detecting and analyzing genetic material in various biological samples.