Question:
SARS-CoV-2 is hypothesised to have jumped from bats to pangolins before infecting humans. Which one (or more) of the following methods can be effectively used for testing this hypothesis?
SARS-CoV-2 is hypothesised to have jumped from bats to pangolins before infecting humans. Which one (or more) of the following methods can be effectively used for testing this hypothesis?
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Genomic comparison and evolutionary trees trace viral origins.
Updated On: Dec 24, 2025
- Comparative genomics
- DNA fingerprinting
- Phylogenetics
- Transgenesis
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The Correct Option is A, C
Solution and Explanation
To examine the hypothesis that SARS-CoV-2 jumped from bats to pangolins before infecting humans, several scientific methods can be employed. Let’s review the options provided:
- Comparative genomics: This method involves comparing the genomes of different organisms to identify similarities and differences. In this context, scientists would analyze the genetic sequences of SARS-CoV-2 found in bats, pangolins, and humans. By doing so, researchers can trace evolutionary relationships and transmission pathways.
Comparative genomics is effective for testing this hypothesis because you'll be able to identify genetic markers that suggest the virus passed through certain species (such as pangolins) before infecting humans. - DNA fingerprinting: This technique is commonly used for individual genetic identification, typically in forensic investigations. While DNA fingerprinting is less applicable for tracing virus evolution across species, it might help in analyzing variations within populations. However, it is not the best tool for examining interspecies transmission of viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
Thus, DNA fingerprinting is not a primary method for testing the given hypothesis. - Phylogenetics: This method studies the evolutionary relationships among species by constructing a phylogenetic tree. For viral studies, phylogenetics helps identify which viruses are more closely related to each other by comparing sequences. This approach is crucial in understanding how SARS-CoV-2 might have evolved and transmitted between bats, pangolins, and humans.
Phylogenetics is highly relevant and useful for this hypothesis as it provides a visual representation of evolutionary pathways. - Transgenesis: This is a method of introducing a foreign gene into an organism. While valuable for genetic research and biotechnology, transgenesis does not offer insight into natural transmission pathways or evolutionary relationships between viruses in different hosts.
Therefore, transgenesis is not suitable for testing the hypothesis of interspecies viral transmission.
Conclusion: Both Comparative genomics and Phylogenetics are effective methods for testing the hypothesis regarding the interspecies transmission of SARS-CoV-2.
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