Q20. ‘Microsatellite DNA’ is used in the case of which one of the following?
a. Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
b. Stimulating ‘stem cells’ to transform into diverse functional tissues
c. Promoting clonal propagation of horticultural plants
d. Assessing the efficacy of drugs by conducting series of drug trials in a population
Question from UPSC Prelims 2023 GS Paper
Explanation :
a. Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
Microsatellite DNA and its Importance
Microsatellite DNA, also known as short tandem repeats (STRs), consists of short repeating sequences of nucleotides (usually 2-6 base pairs) found throughout the genome. These repetitive sequences are highly variable among individuals and populations, making them useful for studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna. By comparing the microsatellite DNA patterns of different individuals or species, researchers can infer genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary relationships. Microsatellite DNA is not directly involved in stem cell stimulation, clonal propagation of plants, or drug trial assessments.