Biology Biotechnology PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 15 of 65
The Maxam-Gilbert method of DNA sequencing is based on:
A
Chain termination by ddNTPs
B
Chemical cleavage of DNA strands
C
Automated capillary laser scans
D
Polymerase chain amplification
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Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Chemical cleavage of DNA strands
Concept:

Chemical degradation strategies for nucleic acid sequence determination.

Solution:

The Maxam-Gilbert method (1977) relies on nucleobase-specific chemical cleavage of DNA strands using chemicals like dimethyl sulfate and hydrazine, followed by gel resolution.

Why other options are incorrect:

  • Chain termination by ddNTPs: The fundamental mechanism underlying Sanger enzymatic DNA sequencing.


  • Automated capillary laser scans: Modern high-throughput sequencing setups based on fluorescent Sanger dideoxy chemistry.


  • Polymerase chain amplification: PCR is an amplification technique, not a direct sequencing chemistry.

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