18. Molecular Genetic Tools

In a standard DNA extraction protocol, what is the primary purpose of adding detergent?

DNA fragments can be separated by gel electrophoresis because they differ in which property that affects their migration through the gel under an electric field?

In gel electrophoresis as a method for analyzing DNA, why is a DNA ladder (molecular weight marker) useful and why is it included on the gel?

DNA fingerprinting works because individuals (except identical twins) differ in the lengths and sequences of highly polymorphic regions of their DNA, which can be compared across samples. Which type of DNA variation is most commonly exploited in classic DNA fingerprinting?

In a standard DNA extraction protocol, what is the primary function of the lysis solution?

In agarose gel electrophoresis, how does DNA move through the gel when an electric field is applied?

Which method rapidly amplifies (copies) a specific DNA sequence in vitro without using bacteria or cloning in cells?

In a standard DNA extraction protocol, what is the primary role of detergent (e.g., SDS or dish soap)?

In forensic DNA profiling, how is DNA similar to a fingerprint?

In the context of methods for analyzing DNA, how does polymerase chain reaction (PCR) relate to DNA fingerprinting?

In a standard DNA extraction protocol, which of the following is commonly added to precipitate DNA out of aqueous solution?

Which method is most commonly used to separate genomic DNA fragments by size?

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using DNA technology (e.g., PCR-based testing, DNA profiling, or sequencing) in human applications?

In the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which enzyme synthesizes (builds) the new DNA strands during the extension step?

In gel electrophoresis, what is a DNA ladder used for?