Question

Restriction enzymes cut at very specific sequences; if the sequences between two alleles are different it will generate different number and sizes of fragments when used this is referred to as a______.

Answer 1

The term is 'Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP),' a technique that illustrates variations in DNA fragment sizes due to sequence differences between alleles, providing a unique DNA fingerprint for individuals.

Step-by-step explanation:

With the help of precise molecular scissors called restriction enzymes, DNA can be cut at particular nucleotide sequences to produce fragments of varying lengths. Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) is the term used to describe the variation in the number and size of these fragments resulting from sequence differences between two alleles. Similar to a DNA "fingerprint," this method allows for the unique identification of individuals and is beneficial for forensic investigations, parentage confirmation, genetic mutation identification, and the tracking of heritable traits via RFLP analysis.

Restrictions endonucleases come in different varieties, like BamHI, EcoRI, and XhoI. They are distinguished by their distinct recognition sequences, which result in either blunt or sticky ends of cleaved DNA. By splicing DNA fragments into vectors like plasmids, these enzymes—which are essential tools in the field of recombinant DNA technology—help create recombinant DNA.