A DNA segment with unique, identifiable properties that differ among individuals, enabling the mapping of chromosomal regions without relying on phenotypes.
Polymorphism
A genetic variation present in a population, resulting in differences in DNA sequences among individuals, useful for distinguishing markers.
Restriction Enzyme
A protein that recognizes specific DNA sequences and cuts DNA at those sites, generating fragments of varying lengths based on sequence differences.
Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism
A variation in DNA fragment sizes produced by restriction enzymes, reflecting sequence differences and serving as a molecular marker.
Gel Electrophoresis
A laboratory technique that separates DNA fragments by size, allowing visualization and comparison of marker patterns among individuals.
Recombination Frequency
A measure of how often genetic material is exchanged during mating, used to estimate distances between markers on chromosomes.
Linkage Map
A diagram showing the relative positions of genetic markers on a chromosome, constructed using recombination data rather than phenotypes.
Microsatellite
A short, repetitive DNA sequence, such as a CA repeat, that varies in length and position among individuals and serves as a genetic marker.
PCR
A technique that amplifies specific DNA sequences, enabling detection and analysis of molecular markers like microsatellites.
Southern Blotting
A method for detecting specific DNA sequences within a sample, useful for identifying the presence and length of molecular markers.
Genotype
The genetic constitution of an individual at a specific locus, which can be inferred by analyzing molecular marker patterns.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism
A DNA sequence variation involving a single base change, contributing to individual differences and affecting restriction enzyme recognition.
Duplication
A genetic event where a DNA segment is copied, leading to increased fragment length and variation detectable by molecular markers.
Deletion
A loss of a DNA segment, resulting in shorter fragments and contributing to polymorphism among individuals.
Pedigree
A diagram representing familial relationships and inheritance patterns, used to track marker segregation across generations.