Question

RFLPs have been tremendously useful for genomic mapping studies because _____.

1) they are found only in the coding sequences of genes
2) they are found only in disease-causing genes
3) they are found only in expressed genes
4) they are found only in the promoter regions of genes
5) they are not restricted to genes, and are abundantly scattered throughout the genome

Answer 1

RFLPs are tremendously useful because they are not restricted to genes, and are abundantly scattered throughout the genome (option 5). This allows for a more comprehensive analysis of genetic differences among individuals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) has been a valuable tool for genomic mapping studies. This is primarily due to the fact that these genetic markers are not limited to specific areas of the DNA but are abundantly scattered throughout the genome, including both coding and non-coding regions. The variations in DNA sequences between individuals, which include differences in restriction enzyme recognition sites, create unique patterns of DNA fragments when the DNA is cut with restriction enzymes. These patterns can be analyzed via gel electrophoresis, thus allowing for the mapping of genetic diversity, the identification of disease-causing genes, and the establishment of paternity, among other applications.

In conclusion, RFLPs are tremendously useful because they are not restricted to genes, and are abundantly scattered throughout the genome (option 5). This allows for a more comprehensive analysis of genetic differences among individuals.