microsatellites

Microsatellites are small, repeating sequences of DNA made up of short motifs, usually 2-6 base pairs long, that are repeated many times in a row. They are found throughout the genome and are highly variable among individuals, making them useful for genetic studies like identification and paternity testing. Their high mutation rate leads to differences in the number of repeats, which can serve as genetic markers. Microsatellites are valuable tools in fields like forensic science, population genetics, and disease research because of their variability and widespread distribution in the DNA.