Match the correct fact to the correct biotechnology procedure. A) DNA probes; Used to identify genes in a DNA sample. B) Human genome project; A large scale effort to clone a human. C) Polymerase Chain Reaction; The last step of DNA fingerprinting. D) Plasmid; Special genes from an organism that will be placed in vectors to be cloned into new organisms.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: A) DNA probes; Used to identify genes in a DNA sample.
Explanation
In biotechnology, accurate identification of genes is essential for research, diagnostics, and genetic engineering. DNA probes are short, single-stranded pieces of DNA that are complementary to a specific DNA sequence of interest. They are labeled with radioactive or fluorescent markers and are used to detect the presence of target genes within a complex DNA sample. This technique allows scientists to locate specific sequences among millions of base pairs, making DNA probes vital tools in genetic diagnostics, gene mapping, and forensics.
Let’s briefly evaluate why the other options are incorrect:
B) Human Genome Project; A large scale effort to clone a human.
Incorrect. The Human Genome Project (HGP) was a scientific research initiative aimed at mapping and sequencing the entire human genome. It identified all the genes in human DNA and mapped their locations, but it had no intention of cloning a human. Its purpose was to provide a reference for studying genetic diseases, evolution, and gene function.
C) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR); The last step of DNA fingerprinting.
Incorrect. PCR is used in the early steps of DNA fingerprinting, not the final step. It amplifies small amounts of DNA so there is enough material to analyze. PCR is critical for generating sufficient DNA for further analysis, such as gel electrophoresis, which is used in the final steps of DNA fingerprinting to visualize unique patterns.
D) Plasmid; Special genes from an organism that will be placed in vectors to be cloned into new organisms.
Incorrect description. A plasmid itself is a type of vector — a small, circular piece of DNA found in bacteria, used to carry foreign genes into host cells. It’s not the special genes but the vehicle that carries them.
Therefore, only A) DNA probes; Used to identify genes in a DNA sample correctly matches the procedure with its function.
