Various types of primers and probes are available from several suppliers for applications in molecular biology. Used in PCR-based amplification, oligonucleotide primers guide the activity of polymerases in order to amplify gene-specific sequences. Non-specific primers, such as random hexamers and oligo-dT primers, are used in the synthesis of cDNA and DNA hybridization probes. DNA and RNA probes are labeled oligonucleotides used in hybridization experiments, such as nucleic acid blotting, in situ hybridization and FISH.
Gene-specific primers are ready-to-use components of PCR and qPCR that enable the detection of specific genes. Eliminating the need for manual primer-design, these commercially prepared oligonucleotides can speed up molecular experiments. These usually come in primer pairs, containing forward and reverse sequences. Refer to the supplier page for information on the target gene, validated uses, and other resources.