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Question & Answer1
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Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
It allows for rapid identification of pathogens by comparing genetic markers against a database of sequences.
B
It provides a method for visually observing bacteria under a microscope.
C
It replaces all traditional methods of bacterial culture and identification.
D
It is primarily used for identifying viral pathogens rather than bacterial ones.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing lets doctors identify bacteria by reading a tiny, highly conserved part of the bacterial genome that acts like a fingerprint. Because the 16S gene is present in all bacteria but has variable regions that differ between species, sequencing it reveals the exact bacterial species without needing to grow the organism in a lab. The genetic markers found in these variable regions serve as unique signatures that can be matched against a database, allowing rapid and accurate identification of pathogens that are hard to culture. For example, a patient with a bloodstream infection can be diagnosed with *Enterococcus faecalis* in a few hours by sequencing the 16S gene from a blood sample, speeding up appropriate treatment. This method has replaced many slow, culture‑based tests, making clinical diagnostics faster, more precise, and able to detect hard‑to‑grow bacteria.
Detailed Explanation
Sequencing reads the 16S rRNA gene, which is present in all bacteria but has unique regions for each species. Other options are incorrect because Sequencing does not give a picture of the bacteria; Sequencing is a tool, not a replacement for culture.
Key Concepts
bacterial identification
clinical diagnostics
genetic markers.
Topic
16S Ribosomal RNA Gene Sequencing
Difficulty
hard level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1Which of the following statements best explains the significance of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing in identifying bacterial species as genetic markers?
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2
Question 2In 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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3
Question 3Which 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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4
Question 4How does 16S Ribosomal RNA gene sequencing contribute to metagenomics and taxonomy through culture-independent methods?
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5
Question 5A 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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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 7Arrange the steps for using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to classify bacterial species in a microbial community.
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8
Question 816S rRNA gene sequencing : bacterial classification :: DNA sequencing : ?
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9
Question 9What underlying mechanism explains why 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing can effectively classify diverse bacterial species in a complex microbial population?
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