Final answer:
Probes are required for Southern blotting, Northern blotting, and Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), as each technique uses a probe to detect specific nucleic acid sequences. Western blotting uses antibodies instead of probes.
Step-by-step explanation:
A probe is required for several techniques that involve hybridization between single-stranded nucleic acid molecules. These techniques are Southern blot, Northern blot, and Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). In Southern blotting, DNA fragments are separated by gel electrophoresis, transferred to a membrane, and then hybridized with a DNA probe that is complementary to the target sequence. Likewise, in Northern blotting, RNA fragments are separated and then hybridized with a probe. However, in Western blotting, proteins are separated by gel electrophoresis and detected using antibodies, not nucleic acid probes. Therefore, a probe is not typically utilized. FISH uses probes that bind directly to specific parts of the chromosome within the intact cells, also identifying DNA sequences. The answer to the question is E, All of the above, since each listed technique except Western blot uses a probe for detecting specific nucleic acid sequences.