Final answer:
PCR primers are short DNA sequences that bind to specific target DNA regions, initiating the synthesis of new DNA strands. Their stability, specificity, and concentration between 0.05μM and 0.1 μM make them crucial for PCR's functionality in amplifying desired DNA sequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primers used in the annealing step of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) are specifically designed short sequences of DNA. These primers are crucial because they provide the starting point for DNA polymerase to begin DNA synthesis. At the annealing temperature, which is typically around 55°C, primers bind to their complementary sequence on the separated DNA strands. Because they are shorter and in higher concentration, they can quickly find and bind to their target sequences even before the separated DNA strands can re-anneal.
DNA primers are used instead of RNA primers because of their stability and ability to be synthesized with a specific sequence to target particular regions of the DNA. This specificity allows for the amplification of desired DNA fragments. The primers' concentration during PCR ranges between 0.05μM to 0.1 μM, which assists in their ability to preferentially anneal to the target DNA instead of re-annealing the original template strands during subsequent cycles.
In summary, the specificity, stability, and concentration of the primers allow for efficient and specific amplification of the DNA sequence of interest during the PCR process.