which macromolecule was used to determine the species of gut bacteria present in the rhinoceroses?
Which macromolecule was used to determine the species of gut bacteria present in the rhinoceroses?
Answer: The macromolecule commonly used to determine the species of gut bacteria, not just in rhinoceroses but in many organisms, is DNA. Specifically, scientists often analyze the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene, which is a component of ribosomal DNA, to identify and classify bacteria. This gene is highly conserved among different species of bacteria but has enough variability to distinguish between them.
How It Works:
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Sample Collection: Researchers collect fecal or gut samples from the rhinoceroses to gather the bacteria present.
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DNA Extraction: The DNA from these bacterial communities is extracted.
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PCR Amplification: The 16S rRNA gene is amplified using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This step creates many copies of the gene segment, making it easier to study.
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Sequencing: The amplified gene is then sequenced to determine the specific order of nucleotides, which helps identify the bacterial species present based on known sequences in databases.
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Analysis and Identification: The sequences are compared with databases to confirm the identity of the bacterial species present in the sample.
Why 16S rRNA?
- Conservation and Variation: The 16S rRNA gene is present in almost all bacteria and contains both conserved and variable regions. This makes it ideal for identifying bacteria at the species level.
- Extensive Databases: There are comprehensive databases with 16S rRNA sequences for thousands of bacterial species, facilitating accurate identification.
Summary: DNA, specifically the 16S ribosomal RNA gene, is the macromolecule used to determine the species of gut bacteria in rhinoceroses. This process involves DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing, and comparison with databases.