Chapter 13, Problem 1RE

RECALL What advantages does fluorescent labeling offer over radioactive methods of labeling DNA?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The advantages of fluorescent labeling over radioactive labeling of DNA is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Two methods are used to detect or visualize DNA fragments.

Radioactive labeling: labeling of DNA molecule with radioactive isotopes of phosphorus $\left(\text{P}-32\right)$ and sulfur $\left(\text{S-35}\right)$.

Florescence: labeling of DNA molecule with fluorescent molecules of ethidium bromide.

Answer to Problem 1RE

Solution: In fluorescent labeling of a DNA molecule, fluorescent molecules of ethidium bromide are used. This fluorescent tag is safe, can be decomposed easily, and no special license for its use is needed.

Explanation of Solution

Two methods are used to detect or visualize DNA fragments. In radioactive labeling of DNA molecule, radioactive isotopes of phosphorus $\left(\text{P}-32\right)$ and sulfur $\left(\text{S-35}\right)$ are used. In fluorescent labeling of DNA molecule, fluorescent molecules of ethidium bromide are used.

Since in radioactive labeling, radioactive molecule is used, which is unsafe, special license is needed to carry out the experiment. Also, special techniques are required that can be used to decompose the radioactive waste. But all these things are not needed in the case of fluorescent labeling.

Thus, fluorescent tag is safe, can be decomposed easily, and no special license is needed for its use.

Conclusion

The fluorescent tag is safe, can be decomposed easily, and no special license is needed for its use.