YESPYQ Start Practice
🔬 Science & TechnologyUPSC 2023Space & Space Technology

Microsatellite DNA’ is used in the case of which one of the following?

aStudying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
bStimulating ‘stem cells’ to transform into diverse functional tissues
cPromoting clonal propagation of horticultural plants
dAssessing the efficacy of drugs by conducting series of drug trials in a population
✓ Correct answer: a) Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
ExplanationMicrosatellite DNA, alternatively known as short tandem repeats (STRs), represents a genetic marker characterised by repetitive sequences of DNA.Highly polymorphic, microsatellites exhibit varying lengths attributed to discrepancies in the number of repeat units.By scrutinising the discrepancies in microsatellite DNA sequences within individuals or populations, scientists can evaluate genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary links both within species and across different species.5

Practice more Science PYQs

Attempt a free 10-question quiz or browse the full Science & Technology previous-year-question bank with instant answers and explanations.

🔬 Science PYQs →

More UPSC Science PYQs

🔬 Science · 2024“Membrane Bioreactors” are often discussed in the context of:…🔬 Science · 2024Which one of the following is synthesised in the human body that dilates blood vessels and…🔬 Science · 2023‘Aerial metagenomics’ best refers to which one of the following situations?…🔬 Science · 2022In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the followi…🔬 Science · 2021Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of:…🔬 Science · 2019‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why? 1. …