Topic Introduction

Strategies for Overcoming PCR Inhibition

Adapted from "Strategies for Overcoming PCR Inhibition," Chapter 12, in PCR Primer, 2nd edition (eds. Dieffenbach and Dveksler). Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA, 2003.

INTRODUCTION

The use of conventional and real-time PCR is to some extent restricted by the presence of PCR inhibitors. This is particularly so when the techniques are applied directly to complex biological samples such as clinical, environmental, or food samples for the detection of microorganisms. PCR inhibitors can originate from the sample itself, or as a result of the method used to collect or otherwise prepare the sample. Either way, inhibitors can dramatically reduce the sensitivity and amplification efficiency of PCR. This article discusses methods of reducing inhibition and designing reliable and sensitive conventional and real-time PCR experiments.