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Multiple Choice
What characteristic of short tandem repeats (STRs) in DNA makes them useful for DNA fingerprinting?
A
They have a high mutation rate.
B
They are highly variable between individuals.
C
They are located in coding regions of the genome.
D
They are identical in all humans.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of Short Tandem Repeats (STRs): STRs are sequences in DNA where a short nucleotide sequence is repeated multiple times in a row. The number of repeats can vary between individuals.
Recognize the significance of variability: The key characteristic of STRs that makes them useful for DNA fingerprinting is their high variability between individuals. This means that the number of repeats at a given STR locus can differ from person to person.
Consider the application in DNA fingerprinting: In DNA fingerprinting, multiple STR loci are analyzed to create a unique genetic profile for an individual. The variability in STRs allows for distinguishing between different individuals based on their DNA.
Clarify why other options are incorrect: STRs do not have a high mutation rate; they are not located in coding regions of the genome, and they are not identical in all humans. These characteristics would not contribute to their usefulness in DNA fingerprinting.
Conclude with the correct characteristic: The high variability of STRs between individuals is what makes them particularly useful for DNA fingerprinting, as it allows for the creation of unique genetic profiles.