Which of the following is not required in PCR-

Options

A. DNA primer
B. DNA template
C. RNA primer
D. Taq polymerase

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding PCR**: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify DNA, creating millions of copies of a specific DNA segment. It is crucial in genetic engineering and biotechnology for studying DNA sequences.

2. **Identifying Components of PCR**: The basic components required for PCR include:
- **DNA Template**: This is the original DNA strand that contains the sequence to be amplified.
- **Primers**: Short sequences of nucleotides that provide a starting point for DNA synthesis. Typically, these are DNA primers.
- **DNA Polymerase**: An enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands. Taq polymerase, derived from the thermophilic bacterium Thermus aquaticus, is commonly used because it can withstand high temperatures.

3. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **DNA Primer**: This is usually required in PCR to initiate the synthesis of new DNA strands.
- **DNA Template**: This is essential as it serves as the blueprint for the new DNA being synthesized.
- **RNA Primer**: While PCR typically uses DNA primers, RNA primers can be used in some variations of PCR, but they are not standard.
- **Taq Polymerase**: This enzyme is crucial for the amplification process.

4. **Conclusion**: Among the options provided, the RNA primer is not a standard requirement for PCR, as DNA primers are typically used. Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Which of the following is not required in PCR?" is **RNA primer**.

**Final Answer**: RNA primer

---