SNP is an abbreviation for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism, a term commonly used in genetics and molecular biology. It refers to a specific type of genetic variation or mutation that occurs when a single nucleotide (one of the four basic building blocks of DNA) is altered within the DNA sequence of an individual's genome.
With billions of nucleotides making up the DNA in a human genome, SNPs represent the most frequent form of genetic variation. These mutations can occur throughout the entire genome, including within the protein-coding regions of genes, as well as in non-coding regions.
SNPs are highly relevant in genetic research and clinical studies as they are associated with a wide range of biological phenomena including disease susceptibility, drug response variability, and complex traits. They may influence an individual's likelihood of developing certain diseases, their response to medications, as well as their susceptibility to environmental factors.
SNPs can be detected through various molecular biology techniques, such as DNA sequencing or genotyping assays, allowing scientists to identify and catalog these variations within a population. By studying SNPs, researchers can gain insights into the genetic basis of diseases or traits, enabling personalized medicine approaches that tailor treatments to an individual's genetic makeup.
Overall, SNP is a term used to describe a single nucleotide change within an individual's genome, representing the most common form of genetic variation and holding significant implications for genetic research, disease susceptibility, drug response, and personalized medicine.
