Real-time PCR.

Research into the field of DNA has increased dramatically in the years since DNA profiling was first identified. Since then, techniques have been developed to identify individuals from DNA samples equivalent to a single cell. Development of these techniques meant that the ability to accurately quantitate the DNA in such samples was required to evolve at the same pace. As a result, there are a variety of quantitation protocols available, including the picogreen assay, slot blot systems, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Real-time PCR is a relatively recent development but promises to be the most sensitive and accurate technique available.