Which testing method enables testing of multiple targets by amplifying several DNA regions simultaneously?

• A. PCR
• B. MALDI-TOF MS
• C. Multiplex PCR
• D. Nanoparticle probe technology

Answer: (C)

Multiplex PCR is the method that enables testing of multiple targets by amplifying several DNA regions in one reaction. In a standard PCR, a single primer pair targets one DNA region, so you’d need separate reactions to test additional targets. Multiplex PCR adds multiple primer pairs in the same tube, allowing simultaneous amplification of several different regions. This is powerful for panels that screen for multiple pathogens or resistance genes, but it requires careful primer design and optimization to avoid primer–dimer formation and to keep all targets amplified efficiently. The other techniques operate on different principles: MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry identifies organisms by protein patterns rather than multiplex DNA amplification, and nanoparticle probe approaches detect targets using probes rather than amplifying multiple DNA regions in a single reaction.