Edited by the inventor of PCR and two prominent experts in PCR techniques, this first comprehensive handbook on the Polymerase Chain Reaction has the most up to date methodological protocols from the world's leading laboratories. Included are exciting new techniques and enhanced methods, previously unavailable in book form, that show the novice and experienced PCR user exactly how they can optimize their results. The applications chapters are quite unique, with the foremost researchers providing not only protocols, but explaining why PCR has revolutionized their particular field. Future enhancements of PCR as well as new potential uses are discussed. Readers will learn how PCR has changed the face of diagnostic testing, cancer research, genetics, forensics, plant biology, DNA sequencing, gene therapy, and much more! Nearly forty chapters have been extensively reviewed and checked for accuracy and breadth of subject matter.