Question

Why are you performing the BLASTN search of this second database?

a) To confirm the presence of specific mutations
b) To identify the presence of certain genes
c) To compare sequence homology across species
d) To assess the efficiency of the search algorithm

Answer 1

A BLASTN search of a second database allows for the comparison of DNA sequence homology, aiding in the construction of phylogenies and identification of evolutionary relationships and mutations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Performing a BLASTN search of a second database is an essential step in bioinformatics to compare sequence homology across different species. This comparison enables scientists to decipher accurate phylogenies, which are evolutionary trees that represent the relationships among species. In this context, concepts like homologous and analogous traits are important to distinguish because they support different evolutionary narratives—divergent and convergent evolution, respectively. By using BLASTN, researchers can identify mutations in DNA codes that may be responsible for certain traits or diseases, uncover conserved sequences that have remained unchanged throughout evolution, and provide insights into the evolutionary distance between species. Additionally, it allows the detection of oncogens, DNA polymorphisms, and pathogenic organisms in samples.