‘Microsatellite DNA’ is used in the case of which one of the following? ( UPSC CSE 2023)

‘Microsatellite DNA’ is used in the case of which one of the following? ( UPSC CSE 2023)

1. Studying the evolutionary relationships among species of fauna 
2. Stimulating ‘stem cells’ to transform into diverse functional tissues 
3. Promoting clonal propagation of horticultural plants 
4. Assessing the efficacy of drugs by conducting series of drug trials in a population

Answer: A

Explanation: 

• Option A is correct: Microsatellite DNA, also known as short tandem repeats (STRs), is a specific type of repetitive DNA sequence found in the genome of organisms. 

Microsatellite DNA analysis is a powerful tool for studying the evolutionary relationships among various fauna (animals) and assessing genetic diversity within and between populations. By analysing microsatellite markers, researchers can gain insights into the genetic structure, gene flow, and evolutionary history of species.

It is also useful for studying inheritance patterns in families or for creating a DNA fingerprint from crime scene samples.

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