Question

DNA microarrays have had a huge impact on genomic studies because they?

1) can identify the function of any gene in a genome.
2) can be used to introduce entire genomes into bacterial cells.
3) allow the expression of many or even all of the genes in a genome to be compared at once.
4) allow physical maps of the genome to be assembled in a very short time.
5) dramatically enhance the efficiency of restriction enzymes (endonucleases).

Answer 1

DNA microarrays have a huge impact on genomic studies because they allow the expression of many or all genes in a genome to be compared at once, providing insights into gene expression patterns and function. This technology uses hybridization to detect gene expression by analyzing DNA fragments fixed on a slide or chip. Microarray analysis can be used to study diseases, such as cancer, and understand how gene expression is affected by different factors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Microarray technology, specifically DNA microarrays, have had a huge impact on genomic studies because they allow the expression of many or even all of the genes in a genome to be compared at once. This means that researchers can analyze and compare the activity of genes in different cells or tissues, providing valuable insights into gene expression patterns and function.

Microarrays use a method called hybridization to detect gene expression by analyzing an array of DNA fragments fixed on a glass slide or silicon chip. Each DNA fragment represents a different gene, and by comparing the hybridization patterns, researchers can understand which genes are active and how their expression varies.

For example, microarray analysis can be used to compare the gene expression patterns between healthy cells and cancerous cells, helping to identify genes that may be implicated in cancer development or progression. It can also be used to study how gene expression is affected by infections or chemical treatments.