molecular genetic analyses

Definition

Laboratory methods that examine DNA, RNA, or protein sequences to infer genetic variation, relatedness, gene function, or evolutionary history. In arthropod research, these analyses include DNA barcoding, microsatellite genotyping, whole-genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and phylogenomic inference to resolve species boundaries, detect cryptic diversity, track gene flow, or identify adaptive loci.

Etymology

From Latin 'molecula' (small mass), Greek 'genetikos' (relating to origin/birth), and Greek 'analysis' (breaking up).

Example

Molecular genetic analyses of COI mitochondrial sequences revealed that what was once considered a single widespread butterfly species actually comprised three cryptic species with non-overlapping geographic ranges.

Synonyms

• molecular analyses
• genetic analyses

Related Terms

• DNA barcoding
• Phylogenetics
• population genetics
• Genomics
• transcriptomics
• microsatellite
• single nucleotide polymorphism
• cryptic species

Usage Notes

The plural form emphasizes the collective suite of methods; singular 'molecular genetic analysis' refers to a single assay or study. Distinguished from classical genetic analyses (crossing experiments, karyotyping) by its direct examination of molecular sequences. In entomology, increasingly replaces or complements morphological taxonomy for species delimitation.