Question

Where was the thermostable DNA polymerase Taq DNA polymerase used in PCR isolated from?

Answer 1

Taq DNA polymerase, essential for PCR, is isolated from Thermus aquaticus, a bacterium found in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Taq DNA polymerase used in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is isolated from the thermophilic bacterium Thermus aquaticus. This bacterium was discovered in 1969 and is capable of thriving in the high temperatures found in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park.

The enzyme's ability to withstand and function at the high temperatures needed for PCR makes it invaluable in the process of amplifying specific DNA sequences. Because of its thermostable nature, Taq DNA polymerase does not denature at the typical melting temperatures of DNA and thus, does not require replenishment after each cycle of PCR, unlike polymerases from non-thermophilic sources.