Molecular diagnostic tests detect nucleic acids, DNA, or RNA in a sample. It is usually impossible to detect a whole strand of DNA or RNA. A specific region of DNA or RNA (called a target) that is unique to the organism, mutation, or disease is often detected. Special techniques are employed because these assays detect or quantify biomolecules that are minute in size and concentration. Most assays include a labeled component, and detection or measurement of the label is used to determine the presence or quantity of target in each sample.
Two standard techniques used in molecular testing are hybridization and amplification.
