Mahmood M S, Kureshi N, Frossard P M.
Gene markers and complex disorders: a Review.
J Pak Med Assoc Jan ;54(11):584-9.

The DNA sequence variations function as genetic markers. A useful marker is polymorphic, i.e., exists in several states. Genetic markers may not necessarily have functional significance and therefore may not have any effect on the phenotype. They can be derived from either coding or noncoding regions of the genome. Most markers for genetic studies have been derived from repetitive sequences in the non-coding regions of the genome. Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs) or minisatellites are 15 to 100 base pairs long sequences repeated several times at a particular locus in tandem. This variation at a locus is utilized in DNA fingerprinting to identify individuals. This is a review article.

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