Question

Choose the correct statement for the synthesis of RNA probe?

(a) Double stranded DNA is only used for probe synthesis

(b) Single stranded DNA can be used for probe synthesis

(c) Probes are prepared for RNA transcripts which are specific for only particular strand

(d) Probes are prepared for RNA transcripts which are specific for both the strands

The question was posed to me during an internship interview.

This intriguing question comes from BAC Vector, M13 and its Derivatives topic in portion Other Vector Systems for E of Genetic Engineering

Answer 1

Right answer is (b) Single stranded DNA can be used for probe synthesis

The explanation: RNA probe can be synthesized by single stranded DNA. This single stranded DNA can be obtained from filamentous phage. Probes are prepared for RNA transcripts which are specific for either of the DNA strands.