Question

What are the applications of northern blotting technique

Answer 1

1. Northern blot analysis is useful for revealing the size of the mRNA encoded by a gene.
2. In some cases, a number of different mRNA species encoded by the same gene have been identified in this way, suggesting that different promoter sites or different terminator sites are used or that alternative mRNA processing can take place.
3. Northern blot analysis can be used to investigate whether an mRNA is present in a cell type or tissue and in how much quantity it is present.
4. It is useful for determining the levels of gene activity. Example: During development, in different cell types of organisms, or in cells before and after they are subjected to various physiological stimuli.