Final answer:
Variable number of tandem repeats (VNTRs) are repetitive sequences in the genome with variable repeat numbers, useful in DNA fingerprinting and phylogenetic studies. Whole-genome sequencing has helped delineate these sequences' roles, including those in the telomere regions at chromosome ends.
Step-by-step explanation:
Variable number of tandem repeats (VNTRs) are short repetitive sequences that are found throughout the genome and that vary in number of repeats at any given site. These sequences play a significant role in the structure and function of genomes. VNTRs can be very useful in forensic science for DNA fingerprinting, as the number of repeats can vary greatly among individuals, providing a unique pattern for each person.
In addition, these sequences are important in the study of genetics and evolution, as they can provide insights into the phylogenetic relationships between species. The whole-genome sequencing process, which determines an entire genome's DNA sequence, has been instrumental in identifying these repetitive sequences and understanding their distribution and function within the genome. Moreover, telomere regions of repetitive nucleotide sequences at the end of a chromosome also utilize such repeats to provide stability to the chromosome ends as cells divide.