Question

1. Explain the difference between a Southern Blot and a RFLP.

2. Why are probes needed for Southern Blot, and what purpose do they serve?

Answer 1

Answer 1)

	Southern Blot	RFLP
Definition	Southern blot technique is utilized when the large DNA sequences are to be separated on the gel based on their size and detection of a particular DNA sequence using a probe.	RFLP stands for Restriction Fragment length polymorphism. It is utilized when small sequences of DNA that are restricted with restriction enzymes are loaded on gel to detect the genetic mutation.
Function	The primary function is to separate the DNA sequences on the basis of their size and identify the target DNA using a probe.	Main function of RFLP is to detect genetic mutation in the restricted DNA fragment that results in polymorphism.

Answer 2) A probe is used in southern blotting to determine any particular sequence of DNA. The probe is generally labeled with fluorescence or radioactively to make the visualization of the target DNA sequence easy on the nitrocellulose membrane with the help of autoradiography.