RT-PCR Methods and Applications

Control of gene transcription, the process in which a gene’s DNA sequence serves as a template for mRNA synthesis, plays a critical role in the multistep process that regulates gene expression. Gene transcrtption levels within a cell change in response to a wide variety of signals that occur during cell development, differentiation, and normal physiological function. Changes in transcrip tion levels also occur in response to disease and other factors. In turn, these changes in transcription levels cause variations in the steady-state levels of indivtdual mRNAs. Thus, analysis of specific mRNA levels 1s vital in a broad range of research areas.