What are the differences between a standard PCR and RT PCR?

Q: What are the differences between a standard PCR and RT PCR?

RT–PCR (Reverse transcription PCR) is essentially a variation of PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The two techniques use a similar process with one difference. RT–PCR has an additional step that involves reverse transcription or RT of RNA to DNA, to allow for amplification. Both techniques can be performed in real time. A look at the differences between standard PCR and RT-PCR: Standard PCR: Uses a DNA template in the first stage Is used for pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that already contain DNA for amplification Is used for detecting viruses that cause diseases such as African swine fever, Ebola, and foot-and-mouth disease Is unable to measure the amount of DNA amplified RT-PCR: Uses an RNA template in the first stage Is used for pathogens containing RNA that needs to be transcribed to DNA for amplification Is used to detect COVID-19, which contains only RNA Is able to measure the amount of DNA amplified

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Accepted Answer

RT&ndash;PCR (Reverse transcription PCR) is essentially a variation of PCR (polymerase chain reaction). The two techniques use a similar process with one difference. RT&ndash;PCR has an additional step that involves reverse transcription or RT of RNA to DNA, to allow for amplification. Both techniques can be performed in real time. A look at the differences between standard PCR and RT-PCR:
Standard PCR:

Uses a DNA template in the first stage
Is used for pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that already contain DNA for amplification
Is used for detecting viruses that cause diseases such as African swine fever, Ebola, and foot-and-mouth disease
Is unable to measure the amount of DNA amplified

RT-PCR:

Uses an RNA template in the first stage
Is used for pathogens containing RNA that needs to be transcribed to DNA for amplification
Is used to detect COVID-19, which contains only RNA
Is able to measure the amount of DNA amplified

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