Hot Start PCR

Hot Start PCR is a technique that reduces non-specific amplification and offers the convenience of reaction set up at room temperature. The polymerases used in Hot Start PCR are unreactive at ambient temperatures. Polymerase activity can be inhibited at these temperatures through different mechanisms, including antibody interaction, chemical modification and aptamer technology. At permissive reaction temperatures reached during PCR cycling, the polymerase dissociates from its inhibitor and commences polymerization. Use of hot start DNA polymerases is most often recommended for high-throughput applications, experiments requiring a high degree of specificity, or even routine PCR where the added security offered by a hot start enzyme is desired.