The Revolutionary Discovery of PCR by Kary Mullis

00:00 DNA under a microscope

DNA can be extracted from the mouth using salt water, soap, and rubbing alcohol. Observations under a microscope reveal coiled DNA and debris, but reading genetic codes was historically impossible. This changed due to one man's drug-fueled discovery.

01:17 Kary Mullis at Berkeley

Kary Mullis, a biochemistry student, preferred LSD over classes, leading to eccentric ideas. His non-traditional approach garnered attention, eventually landing him a job at biotech startup Cetus.

02:50 Cetus and early biotech

Cetus, a pioneering biotech firm, explored DNA manipulation. Researchers discovered restriction enzymes, which cut DNA, paving the way for potential DNA tests in hospitals.

04:16 How to detect sickle cell anemia

Cetus aimed to create genetic tests for conditions like sickle cell disease, using methods like gel electrophoresis to separate DNA fragments. However, existing techniques were slow and inefficient.

09:12 Kary Mullis at Cetus

Mullis, initially unenthused about his repetitive job at Cetus, found new freedom when a synthesizing machine took over his tasks, allowing him to explore ideas in his spare time.

10:39 Infinite DNA glitch explained

In 1983, Mullis had a breakthrough idea during a drive: instead of reading DNA, he could replicate it. This led to the invention of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a method to exponentially copy DNA segments.

15:29 Kary Mullis struggles

Despite initial doubts and skepticism from colleagues, Mullis persisted with PCR experiments. After several challenges, he eventually proved the method's effectiveness, leading to its application in diagnosing genetic conditions.

18:10 Thermus Aquaticus to the rescue

Mullis discovered that a heat-resistant enzyme from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus could withstand the high temperatures needed for PCR, making the process more efficient and practical.

23:53 Going public

Cetus raced to patent PCR as competitors approached. Mullis faced challenges in gaining recognition for his invention, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the PCR narrative despite tensions with his colleagues.

26:59 The quirky genius, Kary Mullis

Mullis received the Nobel Prize for PCR but became controversial for his outspoken views on various scientific topics. His legacy lives on, particularly with the use of PCR in COVID-19 testing, showcasing the profound impact of his discovery.