Thalassemia is a recessive blood disease caused by reduced synthesis of one of the globin genes....

Thalassemia is a recessive blood disease caused by reduced synthesis of one of the globin genes. While SCD is a mutation in the structure of hemoglobin, thalassemias can also be caused by mutations in the regulatory elements, causing too little globin to be produced and resulting in anemia. You've designed a DNA probe that you want to use to screen a family for a rare mutation in the β-globin gene that causes thalassemia. First you will use the probe for northern blotting. What information will the northern blot tell you?

a. whether the mRNA for β-globin is being translated into functional proteins in a given cell population
b. whether the amount of the β-globin gene being transcribed (mRNA levels) is within normal range
c. the size of the mRNA being transcribed
d. the presence of a particular mutation by restriction fragment analysis
e. both B and C are correct

The answer is not B

Expert Solution

The correct option is e (both b and c are correct).

Northern blotting is a popular technique, frequently used for RNA detection in any sample. Option b is correct because this technique allows to observe the mRNA size as well as abundance in any given sample. Therefore, northern blotting will give information regarding amount of the beta globin gene transcribed (mRNA levels) and its range. Similarly option c is correct northern blotting will also give information regarding size of mRNA (as Size marker is also run in the gel).

Option a is incorrect: Northern Blotting gives information only for RNA (or mRNA). However, it does not provide any insight to the protein. Western blotting is the technique used for getting informations regarding protein. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option d is incorrect: Restriction fragment analysis is more for DNA analysis rather than RNA. Southern blotting may help in getting information regarding mutation (if any), and not the Northern blotting. Hence, this option is incorrect.

gladiator answered 2 years ago

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