Question

Why is Taq polymerase used in PCR?

Answer 1

1. The first step in PCR is denaturation of DNA which is carried out at high temperatures of about 94^oC.
2. Taq polymerase is a heat-stable (thermostable) enzyme isolated from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus which is a thermophilic (heat-loving) bacterium.
3. Taq polymerase does not get denatured at high temperature and is capable of withstanding high temperatures up to 95^oC.

Hence, the enzyme Taq polymerase is used in Polymerase Chain Reaction.