DNA Polymorphism in Genetic Mapping — NEET Biology
✅ Asked in NEET 2022As polymorphism in DNA sequence is the basis of genetic mapping of human genome as well as of DNA fingerprinting, it is essential that we understand what DNA polymorphism means in simple terms. Polymorphism (variation at genetic level) arises due to mutations. (Recall different kind of mutations and their effects that you have already studied in Chapter 4, and in the preceding sections in this chapter.) New mutations may arise in an individual either in somatic cells or in the germ cells (cells that generate gametes in sexually reproducing organisms). If a germ cell mutation does not seriously impair individual's ability to have offspring who can transmit the mutation, it can spread to
DNA polymorphism refers to variations in DNA sequences between individuals arising from mutations, and forms the basis for genetic mapping and DNA fingerprinting. Students often confuse polymorphism with mutation itself—remember that mutations CREATE polymorphism, but not all mutations are polymorphic (a polymorphism must exist in a population, not just an individual). The key NTA concept: germ cell mutations can spread through populations and become polymorphisms if they don't severely impair reproduction, while somatic mutations cannot be inherited. To score correctly, understand that polymorphism = variation at genetic level across a population, essential for identifying unique genetic markers in genome mapping and forensic analysis.
DNA Polymorphism forms the basis of: (NEET 2022)
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