Use of VNTRs in Genetic Analysis
VNTRs were an important source of RFLP genetic markers used in linkage analysis (mapping) of genomes. Now that many genomes have been sequenced, VNTRs have become essential to forensic crime investigations, via DNA fingerprinting and the CODIS database. When removed from surrounding DNA by the PCR or RFLP methods, and their size determined by gel electrophoresis or Southern blotting, they produce a pattern of bands unique to each individual. When tested with a group of independent VNTR markers, the likelihood of two unrelated individuals having the same allelic pattern is extremely improbable. VNTR analysis is also being used to study genetic diversity and breeding patterns in populations of wild or domesticated animals.
Read more about this topic: Variable Number Tandem Repeat
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