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Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
It will provide a detailed analysis of all genes present in the bacteria, allowing for a comprehensive functional study.
B
It will identify and classify the bacterial species present in the sample, highlighting changes in diversity related to dietary factors.
C
It will isolate and culture each bacterial species found in the gut, enabling in-depth laboratory studies on their functions.
D
It will determine the metabolic activity of the gut bacteria, allowing researchers to understand their functional roles.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing works by amplifying a small, highly conserved part of the bacterial genome that is present in every microbe but still contains enough variation to tell species apart. By sequencing this gene from a patient’s gut sample, the research team can identify which bacteria are there and how many of each type are present. This lets them calculate microbial diversity and see how different diets shift the balance of bacteria, much like comparing the bacterial “menu” after a high‑fiber versus a high‑fat meal. The result is a clear, quantitative picture of how diet changes the gut’s microbial community.
Detailed Explanation
16S rRNA gene sequencing reads a small, highly conserved part of the bacterial genome that acts like a barcode. Other options are incorrect because The misconception is that sequencing shows every gene in the bacteria; The misconception is that the method isolates and grows each bacterium.
Key Concepts
16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing
Microbial diversity
Gut microbiome
Topic
16S Ribosomal RNA Gene Sequencing
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1In the context of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, which approach allows for the identification of microbial taxa without the need for culture methods?
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Practice
2
Question 2Which of the following best describes the significance of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing in understanding microbial communities through culture-independent methods?
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Practice
3
Question 3How has 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing revolutionized bacterial identification in clinical diagnostics, particularly through the use of genetic markers?
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4
Question 4A research team is conducting a study on bacterial diversity in the human gut. They decide to use 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to identify the bacterial species present. Which of the following statements best explains why this method is advantageous for classifying these bacteria?
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Practice
5
Question 5What is the primary purpose of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing in microbiome studies?
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6
Question 6In the context of classifying bacterial species through genomic approaches, 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing specifically targets the ________ gene, which is known for its high degree of conservation across different bacterial taxa.
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7
Question 7How does 16S rRNA gene sequencing contribute to understanding the human microbiome?
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8
Question 8What underlying mechanism explains why 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing can effectively classify diverse bacterial species in a complex microbial population?
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9
Question 9A research team is studying the gut microbiome of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing. They aim to identify not only the species present but also the functional genes that may be involved in the disease. Which of the following statements best describes the advantage of using whole-genome shotgun sequencing over traditional methods like 16S rRNA sequencing in this context?
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Practice
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