This test method is used increasingly within the Averroes Laboratories (ARL)  The principle is based on amplification of a specific fragment of DNA or RNA originating from a bacteria, a virus or a parasite. This DNA or RNA fragment is characteristic of the pathogen to be identified and can be used to detect the pathogen and to distinguish it from other bacteria, viruses, parasites and host DNA and RNA present. PCR tests routinely used in the ARL are based on the real-time PCR technique, Robotic real-time PCR technique using iiPCR technology and conventional PCR technique. Real-time PCR technique makes it possible to observe the reaction during progress (real-time), shortens the time to results, and decreases the contamination risk. What is known as ‘real-time PCR’ makes it possible to identify a specific pathogen as well as to measure the number of DNA-copies or pathogen/ml present in the material within one day. ARL routinely uses various PCR tests – in many cases developed in our own R&D lab or in cooperation with other research institutes. ARL has developed a number of different PCR tests addition to diagnostic tests, ARL will also offers other advanced molecular-biological techniques, such as sequence analyses, fingerprinting and genotyping in coming future.