[DNA analysis by polymerase chain reaction].

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technique to amplify only a specific segment of DNA without using a plasmid or a phage vector. It is a powerful tool for genetic analysis of various diseases including inherited and viral diseases, and is now being applied to clinical diagnosis. Here, presented are several methods using PCR mainly for diagnosis of hemoglobinopathy which we have been engaged in. Some other diseases are also included.