Question

In construction of a cDNA library all of the mRNAs are copied into cDNAs. Why in RT-PCR is only one RNA copied into cDNA?

Option 1: RT-PCR is more efficient.
Option 2: RT-PCR is less accurate.
Option 3: RT-PCR only targets a specific RNA.
Option 4: RT-PCR is magic.

Answer 1

RT-PCR only targets a specific RNA because it uses specific primers to select and amplify one particular mRNA into cDNA, unlike cDNA library construction which involves reverse-transcribing all mRNA present. Therefore, the correct answer is option 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the construction of a cDNA library, mRNA from various sources is reverse-transcribed into cDNA, representing the expressed genes within the original cells. This allows for the study and analysis of gene expression. On the other hand, reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) is designed to copy and amplify only one specific mRNA into cDNA. This targeted approach is due to the use of specific primers that select the mRNA of interest. So, the answer to why only one RNA is copied into cDNA in RT-PCR is Option 3: RT-PCR only targets a specific RNA.