DNA Fingerprinting: Genome variability

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the variability between individual genomes, specifically focusing on the concept of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their role in DNA fingerprinting. The scope includes theoretical aspects of genetic variability and practical applications in genetic identification.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the extent of genomic variability between individuals and seeks clarification on what an SNP is.
  • Another participant defines an SNP as a variation at a specific nucleotide in the DNA sequence and notes that the full extent of genomic variability is not completely understood.
  • A different participant suggests that the inquiry may be related to a homework question.
  • It is mentioned that DNA fingerprinting typically utilizes short tandem repeat polymorphisms (STRPs), and SNPs could be relevant for identifying differences in specific alleles.
  • One participant cites a source indicating that nucleotide diversity among humans is approximately 0.1%, equating to about 3 million nucleotide differences between any two individuals based on the human genome size.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the extent of genomic variability, with some definitions and figures presented but no consensus on the implications or applications of this variability.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to external sources for definitions and data, but the assumptions underlying the estimates of variability and the specific applications of SNPs in DNA fingerprinting remain unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying genetics, particularly in the context of human genomic variability and its applications in forensic science and genetic research.

chapsticks
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How much variability exists between the genomes of separate individuals? What is an SNP?
 
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Homework question?
 
DNA fingerprinting is generally done with STRP short tandem repeat polymorphisms.
I imagine SNPs would be used to determine differences in certain alleles.

From wiki: "The nucleotide diversity between humans is about 0.1%"

Our genome is ~3 billion basepairs, 0.1% of 3 billion is 3 000 000. SO between any 2 people there is said to be ~3 million nucleotide differences!
 
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