1. Identify the bacterial species using DNA identification. The bacterial species of
sample D was Salmonella typhimurium. This was proven using DNA identification and the
symptoms of the patient including fever, headache, joint pain, constipation, loss of appetite,
and abdominal pain.
2. What is the gene used in identification? (1 google scholar reference). The gene used
in identification of bacterial species is the 16S rRNA gene sequences.
3. Why do you think this gene is a good reference in identifying bacteria? The 16S
rRNA is a good reference in identifying bacteria because of its presence in all bacteria. Also,
the function of the 16S rRNA gene has not changed much over time. Lastly, the gene is large
enough for data collection purposes.
4. DNA sequencing is somehow similar to a natural biological process. Mention the
natural process and explain the similarities between sequencing and that natural
process. (3 pts) DNA sequencing also known as the ‘Sanger Method’ is very similar to the
natural process of DNA replication. DNA sequencing is the process of making many copies
of a target DNA region which is the same as DNA replication.
5. Explain how DNA sequencing is different from the natural biological process
mentioned in question 4. (3 pts) DNA sequencing and DNA replication are different
because in DNA sequencing you look for an exact part of the DNA while in replication you
copy the whole thing. Also, DNA sequencing uses chain terminator nucleotides.
6. What is PCR and how does it work? PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction which
is a way to create many copies of DNA.
7. What natural biological process is similar to PCR? The PCR process then uses these
ingredients to mimic the natural DNA replication process that occurs in cells.
8. What is BLAST and how did it work in your experiment? BLAST stands for Basic
Local Alignment Search Tool which is used to compare sequences in proteins or DNA by
using public databases. It worked in our experiment because we copied the DNA sequence,
we found into the BLAST technology.
9. What is DNA homology? DNA homology is the relationship between DNA structures or
the common ancestors of DNA.
10. Write what you have learned from this exercise. I learned about BLAST technology
and how it is utilized to identify DNA sequences in organisms and samples.
11. How did these experiments help in identifying COVID-19 infection? (3pts) These
experiments help identify COVID-19 in many ways, for example. PCR is used to copy
sections of the target viral DNA and identify whether they are present or not. Also, BLAST
technology is used to identify COVID viral DNA quickly and efficiently.
