Class 12 · Molecular Basis of Inheritance

DNA Fingerprinting & Microsatellites — NEET Biology

✅ Asked in NEET 2026
📖 NCERT Source

Another challenging task was assigning the genetic and physical maps on the genome. This was generated using information on polymorphism of restriction endonuclease recognition sites, and some repetitive DNA sequences known as microsatellites (one of the applications of polymorphism in repetitive DNA sequences shall be explained in next section of DNA fingerprinting).

NCERT Biology · Class 12 · Chapter 5 · Paragraph 139
How NTA Uses This Concept

NTA tests understanding of how microsatellites (repetitive DNA sequences with polymorphism) are used to create genetic and physical maps of the genome. Students often confuse microsatellites with minisatellites or forget that these are polymorphic sequences used for mapping, not just fingerprinting identification. The key trap is mixing up the application: while microsatellites can identify individuals (DNA fingerprinting), here they're being tested for their role in genome mapping through restriction polymorphism analysis. Remember: microsatellites = short tandem repeats with high polymorphism = useful for both genetic mapping AND forensic fingerprinting. This concept bridges genomics with practical applications, making it ideal for NEET's integration-based questions.

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QuestionNEET 2026 (cancelled)

Arrange the following steps of DNA fingerprinting in correct sequence: A. Isolation of DNA and digestion by restriction enzymes; B. Hybridisation using a labelled VNTR probe; C. Transferring fragments to synthetic membrane; D. Detection by autoradiography; E. Separation by electrophoresis.

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