PCR

British  

abbreviation

1. polymerase chain reaction: a technique for rapidly producing many copies of a fragment of DNA for diagnostic or research purposes

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PCR Cultural  

1. A laboratory technique that can amplify the amount of DNA from a tiny sample to a large amount within just a few hours. Theoretically, PCR can take one molecule and produce measurable amounts of identical DNA in a short period of time. It is used in DNA fingerprinting and DNA sequencing.

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An enzyme used in this process was originally found in bacteria in hot springs.

Example Sentences

As of Tuesday, there have been 11 suspected illnesses, nine of which have been confirmed with PCR tests.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

One of 17 American citizens repatriated from the ship tested "mildly PCR positive" for the virus while another had "mild symptoms", the US Department of Health and Human Services said on May 10.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

In most clinical settings, the PCR sample must be sent to an outside laboratory, leading to delays that can stretch from several days to weeks.

From Science Daily • Dec. 11, 2025

At-home tests should still work to detect this variant, but PCR tests that doctors can order are more accurate.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2025

Periodically throughout the 1960s PCR leaders demonstrated growing concern for what they termed as shortcomings in the political education of the nation's youth.

From Area Handbook for Romania by Bernier, Donald W.