What is an alternative method to RFLP for identifying genetic mutations?

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a powerful alternative method to Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) for identifying genetic mutations. NGS technology allows for rapid sequencing of large portions of DNA, or even whole genomes, providing a comprehensive view of genetic variations, including point mutations, insertions, deletions, and structural changes across the genome in a single experiment. This broad capability makes it significantly more efficient and informative than RFLP, which is limited to detecting specific mutations associated with particular restriction enzyme recognition sites.

NGS also offers higher sensitivity and resolution, enabling the detection of rare mutations within heterogeneous samples. In contrast to RFLP, which focuses on specific loci that are predefined by the restriction enzymes used, NGS provides an unbiased approach, capable of interrogating the entire genome or targeted regions, thus facilitating a more thorough analysis of genetic mutations and variations. This makes NGS particularly valuable in clinical diagnostics, research, and personalized medicine.

The other methods mentioned, while useful in their own contexts, do not provide the same level of comprehensive genomic analysis as NGS. For example, PCR-based methods like Reverse Transcription PCR and Real-Time PCR are primarily used for detecting and quantifying RNA and specific DNA sequences,