Which of the following is an ASHI requirement for PCR amplification setup?

The requirement for dedicated pipetters in the PCR amplification setup stems from the need to minimize contamination risks during molecular analyses. These dedicated pipetters are used solely for PCR reagent preparation and handling, ensuring that the various lab procedures do not cross-contaminate samples or reagents. Contamination can introduce extraneous DNA, which could lead to false results or compromised data integrity. Implementing dedicated equipment helps maintain a sterile and reliable environment necessary for accurate PCR assays.

Using different colored lab coats for pre- and post-PCR, while a strategy to help distinguish between clean and contaminated areas, is not a specific requirement outlined by ASHI. While phenol/chloroform DNA extraction is a commonly used method for DNA purification, it is not a requirement for PCR amplification setup itself. Lastly, although wipe tests can be important in certain contexts for ensuring cleanliness and absence of cross-contamination, they are not a standard requirement to be performed with every amplification setup in the context of ASHI guidelines. Thus, having dedicated pipetters is a foundational practice for achieving reliable and accurate PCR results.