MINISATELLITE REPEAT Meaning and
Definition
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Minisatellite Repeat:
A minisatellite repeat is a specific type of repetitive DNA sequence found within the genomes of organisms. It is characterized by a short DNA motif consisting of 10-60 base pairs that is repeated in tandem arrays within the genome, usually in non-coding regions. These sequences are called minisatellite repeats due to their intermediate size between microsatellite repeats (comprising 1-6 base pair motifs) and macro or satellite repeats (which are much larger).
Minisatellite repeats are highly variable between individuals within a population, and they also exhibit high variability across species. This variation occurs through frequent mutation events, including insertions, deletions, or substitutions of the repeat motif. Consequently, the length and composition of the minisatellite repeats can vary significantly, even between closely related individuals.
Minisatellite repeats are often used as genetic markers in population and forensic studies due to their high polymorphism. They can be examined by techniques such as gel electrophoresis or DNA sequencing to determine the lengths and patterns of these repeats. For example, in forensic cases, minisatellite repeats can be used to establish DNA profiles and aid in identifying individuals based on their unique repeat patterns.
Furthermore, minisatellite repeats have also been implicated in various genetic disorders and diseases, as their instability and propensity for mutation can have detrimental effects on gene function. Thus, understanding the nature and characteristics of minisatellite repeats is crucial in both genetic research and diagnostic applications.
Common Misspellings for MINISATELLITE REPEAT
- ninisatellite repeat
- kinisatellite repeat
- jinisatellite repeat
- munisatellite repeat
- mjnisatellite repeat
- mknisatellite repeat
- monisatellite repeat
- m9nisatellite repeat
- m8nisatellite repeat
- mibisatellite repeat
- mimisatellite repeat
- mijisatellite repeat
- mihisatellite repeat
- minusatellite repeat
- minjsatellite repeat
- minksatellite repeat
- minosatellite repeat
- min9satellite repeat
- min8satellite repeat
- miniaatellite repeat
Etymology of MINISATELLITE REPEAT
The etymology of the word "Minisatellite Repeat" can be broken down as follows:
1. Minisatellite: The term "minisatellite" consists of two parts, "mini" and "satellite".
- "Mini" is derived from the word "miniature", which means something that is much smaller in size compared to its standard or original version. It is often used as a prefix to denote something smaller or of reduced scale.
- "Satellite" refers to an object that orbits around a larger celestial body, such as a planet. In the context of molecular biology, a minisatellite can be seen as a smaller version or subset of a larger repetitive DNA structure that resembles a satellite.
2. Repeat: In the context of genetics and DNA, a "repeat" refers to a sequence of nucleotides (the building blocks of DNA) that are repeated consecutively.
