GENE PROBE Meaning and
Definition
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A gene probe is a molecular biology tool used to identify and locate specific genetic material within an organism's genome. It is a short sequence of DNA or RNA that has been designed to bind specifically to a complementary sequence of nucleotides within a target gene. Gene probes are widely used in research, diagnostics, and forensic investigations.
The process of gene probing involves several steps. First, a known segment of DNA or RNA, called the probe, is synthesized in a laboratory using specific base sequences. This probe is then labeled with a detectable marker, such as a radioactive isotope or a fluorescent molecule, to facilitate its detection. The labeled probe is then applied to a sample containing the organism's genetic material, such as a tissue sample or a blood sample.
If the target gene is present in the sample, the probe will bind to its complementary sequence, forming a stable hybrid molecule. The detection marker attached to the probe allows researchers to visualize this binding event. By determining the presence or absence of the hybrid molecules, scientists can identify and locate the target gene within the organism's genome.
Gene probes have found numerous applications in various fields of biology. They are widely used in genetic testing, allowing researchers to detect and diagnose genetic disorders. Moreover, gene probes aid in studying gene expression patterns, analyzing evolutionary relationships, and identifying specific bacteria or viruses in clinical specimens. Furthermore, gene probes have been utilized in forensic investigations, helping to identify individuals based on their unique DNA profiles.
In summary, a gene probe is a powerful tool that provides a means to locate and identify specific genetic material within an organism's genome, facilitating various applications in research, diagnostics, and forensics.
Common Misspellings for GENE PROBE
- fene probe
- vene probe
- bene probe
- hene probe
- yene probe
- tene probe
- gwne probe
- gsne probe
- gdne probe
- grne probe
- g4ne probe
- g3ne probe
- gebe probe
- geme probe
- geje probe
- gehe probe
- genw probe
- gens probe
- gend probe
- genr probe
Etymology of GENE PROBE
The word "gene probe" is a combination of "gene" and "probe".
- "Gene" originates from the German word "Gen", first used by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in the early 20th century. The term was derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race" or "kind". It was used to describe the basic unit of heredity, responsible for transmitting traits from parents to offspring.
- "Probe" comes from the Latin word "probare", which means "to test" or "to examine". In the scientific context, a probe is an instrument or tool used to investigate or gather information about a specific subject.
When combined, "gene probe" thus refers to a tool or approach used to detect or investigate specific genes.
