Since Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was first described in 1985, the range of applications of the technique have expanded enormously. This comprehensive, up-to-date volume covers a diverse range of PCR applications, including detection of genetic mutations, detection of foodborne pathogens, forensic applications, determination of relationships among different plant species, and many more. Several chapters deal with the mechanics of the PCR technique itself and give practical advice on such topics as primer design, choice of polymerase, and optimum reaction parameters.