It is a diagnostic technique used to identify the presence of virus or bacteria. It uses the presence of genetic material to identify the pathogen.

Facts to know

• It is used to identify infectious diseases like COVID-19, HIV, and hepatitis.
• It tries to identify the variation in the sequence /structure of DNA or RNA.
• It uses amplification methods such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to generate sufficient quantities of the sample.
• The test’s high specificity and sensitivity allow early detection of pathogens, unlike other tests.

What is nucleic Acid?

• They are molecules representing the genetic information. They are found in different cells as well as a virus.
• They can be DNA or RNA.
• Nucleic acids are composed of nucleotides. The nucleotides are composed of sugar, phosphate, and a nitrogenous base.
• They are essential for life, heredity, and the growth and regulation of all organisms.

Source: The Hindu