reverse transcription
noun
: the process of synthesizing DNA using RNA as a template and reverse transcriptase as a catalyst
Examples of reverse transcription in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Common testing methods include reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, viral culture and immunofluorescence assays.
—
Sacbee.com,
23 Jan. 2026
To sequence the genetic material, the Pandemic Response Lab first converts the RNA into DNA, a process known as reverse transcription.
—
New York Times,
17 Aug. 2022
Following reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing and genomic sequencing of the samples, each family member was found to be infected by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
—
Ashley Abramson,
Health.com,
29 Dec. 2021
Most tests available today to see if people have the virus are conducted using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technology.
—
IEEE Spectrum,
29 May 2020
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Sacbee.com,
23 Jan. 2026
To sequence the genetic material, the Pandemic Response Lab first converts the RNA into DNA, a process known as reverse transcription.
—
New York Times,
17 Aug. 2022
Following reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing and genomic sequencing of the samples, each family member was found to be infected by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
—
Ashley Abramson,
Health.com,
29 Dec. 2021
Most tests available today to see if people have the virus are conducted using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technology.
—
IEEE Spectrum,
29 May 2020
Cite this Entry
“Reverse transcription.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reverse%20transcription. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
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