DNA probes are vital tools used in molecular biology to detect, locate, and identify specific DNA sequences. Alternative words for DNA probes can include nucleic acid probes, gene probes, molecular probes, hybridization probes, and oligonucleotide probes. Nucleic acid probes and gene probes are often used interchangeably with DNA probes, while molecular probes encompass a broader range of nucleic acid and protein-based tools used in a variety of biological studies. Hybridization probes specifically detect the binding of complementary nucleotide sequences, and oligonucleotide probes are short sequences of nucleotides used primarily in biomedical research for the diagnosis and treatment of genetic disorders. Regardless of the term used, DNA probes remain essential agents in the identification and manipulation of genetic material.