Taq polymerase

Taq polymerase is an enzyme used in the laboratory to copy DNA samples quickly and accurately. It comes from a bacterium called Thermus aquaticus, which lives in hot springs, so the enzyme is heat-resistant. During DNA testing, scientists use Taq polymerase in a process called PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to make many copies of a specific DNA segment. This is essential for genetic analysis, medical diagnostics, and research. Its ability to withstand high temperatures makes it especially useful, allowing the copying process to be repeated many times without the enzyme breaking down.