Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given :
The DNA fingerprinting analysis of four family members is shown below.
Study the band pattern obtained and assign each family member to W, X, Y and Z. Choose the correct option.

• A. W father, X mother, V child, Z - paternal uncle
• B. W child, X father, Y mother, Z - maternal uncle
• C. W - father, X child, Y mother, Z - paternal uncle
• D. W child, X father, Y - maternal uncle, Z - mother

Answer 1

The correct option is C W - father, X child, Y mother, Z - paternal uncle

DNA fingerprinting (DNA profiling) is a technique of determining nucleotide sequences of certain areas of DNA which are unique to each individuals. DNA fingerprinting can help to distinguish one human being from another with exception of monozygotic twins. Individuals with highest number of matching DNA bands are considered closest. In the given analysis, X has bands similar to both W and-Y; upper band is common between X (child) and Y (mother) while lower band is common between X and W (father). Z has a band similar to W (upper band) while it has no similarity with X and Y. This indicates that Z is a relative of W and can be paternal uncle of X.

So, the correct answer is 'W - father, X child, Y mother, Z - paternal uncle'.