What are Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs) primarily used for?

Variable Number Tandem Repeats (VNTRs) are primarily used for genetic profiling due to their high variability between individuals. VNTRs are regions in the genome where a short nucleotide sequence is repeated multiple times. The number of repeats can differ significantly between individuals, making them effective markers for identification purposes.

In the context of genetic profiling, VNTRs can be analyzed in forensic science, paternity testing, and population genetics. By comparing the number and pattern of these repeats in DNA samples, scientists can establish genetic relationships or identify individuals with a high degree of certainty. This application relies on the unique pattern of VNTRs in each person's DNA, which is influenced by both genetic inheritance and random mutation.

Other options do not relate to the primary use of VNTRs. For instance, protein synthesis, cell division, and RNA transcription involve processes that relate to gene expression and cellular functionality, rather than the specific variability and identification potential provided by VNTRs.