What are Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms?
An SNP (pronounced “snip”) is a variation in one nucleotide base. For example, the sequence AAGGTT may change to become AAGGTC. In humans, SNPs are the most common type of genetic variation. SNPs don’t change much through generations, meaning they are stable enough to be studied. document.getElementById(‘adsense_placeholder_2’).innerHTML = document.getElementById(‘adsense_ad_2_hidden’).innerHTML; There are thought to be around 10 million SNPs in the human genome. Most of the genome sequence doesn’t code for anything, and the majority of SNPs are found in these non-coding areas. Those found in coding areas are more likely to have an effect on gene function, which can impact health and development. Why is it Useful to Study Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms? As technologies have improved, so has SNP detection. But why study them at all? SNPs may be useful for: Read on New Lupus Drug Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms • Determining how an individual will respond