The concentration of template in a sample can affect the success of PCR amplification in a variety of ways. Too much template promotes nonspecific binding of primers to secondary sites or changes the pH of the reaction mix. Too little template can result in poor yields and/or preferential amplification, especially if the template is degraded. It should be noted that very low template concentration (e.g. 10 copies) can be sufficient for successful PCR amplification.

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