True or False: Branched DNA amplification uses alkaline phosphatase to produce an amplified signal.

Branched DNA amplification is a technique used to detect specific nucleic acid sequences, and it is indeed dependent on signal amplification. In this method, the use of alkaline phosphatase is fundamental. Alkaline phosphatase catalyzes the removal of phosphate groups, thereby facilitating the generation of a detectable signal in the presence of a substrate. The branched structure of the DNA allows multiple amplifications of the signal, which enhances the sensitivity and specificity of the detection process.

The involvement of alkaline phosphatase is a critical component as it functions in amplifying the signal rather than amplifying the target nucleic acid itself. This characteristic distinguishes branched DNA amplification from other amplification methods like PCR, which focus on the replication of the target sequence.

By employing alkaline phosphatase, branched DNA amplification can effectively generate a strong signal for quantifying the amount of target nucleic acid, making the statement true.