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Variable number tandem repeats

Synonym(s)

  • VNTR

Definition(s)

Linear arrangement of multiple copies of short repeated DNA sequences that vary in length and are highly polymorphic, making them useful as markers in linkage analysis

Definition from: GeneTestsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the University of Washington and Children's Health System, Seattle

A segment of DNA that consists of repetitions of a fixed sequence of consecutive DNA base pairs a constant number of times in any one individual and that is widely used for identification purposes in forensic medicine because the number of repetitions of the fixed sequence within the segment varies from individual to individual.

Definition from: Human Genome Project InformationThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the U.S. Department of Energy

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: November 20, 2009