primerprobe

Primerprobe refers to a single oligonucleotide that functions as both a primer and a probe in nucleic acid amplification and detection techniques. Typically, primerprobe is designed to anneal to a specific target sequence within a DNA or RNA molecule. During the amplification process, such as in polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the primer portion of the primerprobe initiates DNA synthesis. Concurrently, the probe portion is designed to hybridize to the newly synthesized strand or a region adjacent to the primer binding site.

This dual functionality allows for real-time monitoring of the amplification process. The probe component is usually modified with a fluorescent reporter molecule and a quencher molecule. When the primerprobe is intact, the quencher is in close proximity to the reporter, and fluorescence is suppressed. As the polymerase extends from the primer, it cleaves the primerprobe, separating the reporter from the quencher. This separation results in an increase in fluorescence, which can be detected and quantified.

Primerprobe technology is widely used in various diagnostic and research applications, including quantitative PCR (qPCR), pathogen detection, genotyping, and gene expression analysis. Its ability to combine amplification and detection into a single step simplifies experimental workflows and provides high sensitivity and specificity. The design of effective primerprobes requires careful consideration of factors such as annealing temperature, binding specificity, and the efficiency of cleavage and fluorescence release.