DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR) - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 8
DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR). Mutations in STRs occur, on average, every 500 generations.
Different numbers of these repeats have... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR) - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the likely reason for this?
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Answer
The likely reason for the variations in short tandem repeats (STRs) without affecting the individual is that these repeats occur in non-coding regions of DNA or mutations in introns. These areas do not typically influence the phenotype or overall traits of an individual.
Step 2
Name the process used to produce many copies of the STR markers.
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The process used to produce many copies of the STR markers is known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This technique amplifies specific DNA sequences, allowing for a sufficient quantity for analysis.
Step 3
Explain which family is Ben’s most recent common ancestor.
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Family Y is Ben’s most recent common ancestor. This can be concluded because there is only one difference/mutation between Ben and Family Y, whereas Family X and Family Z show greater differences compared to Ben. Therefore, Family Y shares the closest genetic relationship with Ben.