Question

PCR based DNA amplification is an essential feature of which of the following combination of molecular markers

• A. RFLP, AFLP and SSR
• B. RFLP, RAPD and SSR
• C. AFLP, SSR and RAPD
• D. RAPD, RFLP and SSR

Hint:

To solve marker classification questions quickly, identify RFLP as non-PCR based. Any combination containing RFLP can be eliminated.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Molecular markers are classified into hybridization-based markers (non-PCR based) and PCR-based markers depending on whether they require in vitro enzymatic DNA amplification.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the molecular markers mentioned in the options:
- RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism): This is a hybridization-based marker.
It relies on digesting genomic DNA with restriction enzymes, separating the fragments via gel electrophoresis, transferring them to a membrane, and identifying polymorphisms using a labeled probe.
It does not involve PCR amplification, which makes any option containing RFLP incorrect.
- AFLP (Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism): This technique combines restriction digestion with PCR-based amplification by ligating adapters to fragments and using selective primers.
- SSR (Simple Sequence Repeats Microsatellites): This PCR-based method uses specific primers flanking tandem repeat regions to amplify length polymorphisms.
- RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA): This PCR-based method uses short, arbitrary primers to amplify random regions of genomic DNA.
The combination of AFLP, SSR, and RAPD consists entirely of PCR-based markers.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the correct option is (C).