Question

The Human Genome Project has demonstrated that in humans of all races and nationalities approximately 99.9 percent of the genome sequence is the same, yet different individuals can be identified by DNA fingerprinting techniques. What is one primary variation in the human genome that can be used to distinguish different individuals? Briefly explain your answer.

Short answer

Answer: One primary variation in the human genome that allows DNA fingerprinting techniques to distinguish different individuals is Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPs are differences in just one nucleotide within the DNA sequence and are useful due to their abundance and distribution throughout the human genome. They can serve as biological markers for various genes and traits, which can be linked to specific diseases, responses to drugs, or environmental factors. By comparing specific regions of DNA containing many SNPs, researchers can create a unique DNA fingerprint for each person.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Human Genome Project

The Human Genome Project was an international research effort aimed at determining the sequence of the entire human genome. It provided a storehouse of information about the entire genetic makeup of humans, revealing that the genome sequence is 99.9% similar across all races and nationalities.

Identifying the Primary Variation

One primary variation in the human genome that can be used to distinguish different individuals is Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). These are differences in just one nucleotide (A, C, T, or G) within the DNA sequence.

Why SNPs Are Useful for DNA Fingerprinting

SNPs are highly abundant and widely distributed throughout the human genome. They can serve as biological markers for various genes and traits, which can be linked to specific diseases, responses to drugs, or environmental factors. Scientists can use these markers to distinguish between people, even though the overall genome sequence is 99.9% identical. By comparing specific regions of DNA—such as those containing many SNPs of interest—researchers can create a unique DNA fingerprint for each person.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are one primary variation in the human genome that can be used to distinguish different individuals in DNA fingerprinting techniques. They are abundant and can be found throughout the genome, making them useful markers for various genes and traits.