Experimental design: A useful tool for PCR optimization

Because of complex interactions among the components of PCR and the wide and increasing variety of applications in which this technique is used, optimization is necessary for every reaction. Here we describe the use of experimental design techniques (2(k) fractional factorial design and central composite design) to attain easier, quicker and cheaper PCR optimization of DNA from blood spots. By determining the factors affecting the product yield first (factors screening), the quantity of template DNA needed for PCR and the Mg2+ concentration are easily optimized (factors optimization).