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Forensic DNA Typing Fundamentals

Forensic DNA typing is a scientific method used to identify individuals through their unique genetic makeup, primarily focusing on short tandem repeats (STRs). The process involves several steps including sample collection, DNA extraction, quantification, PCR amplification, STR analysis, and comparison to establish identity. Its applications span criminal investigations, paternity testing, missing person identification, and exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals, though challenges such as contamination, partial profiles, and ethical issues persist.

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298 views1 page

Forensic DNA Typing Fundamentals

Forensic DNA typing is a scientific method used to identify individuals through their unique genetic makeup, primarily focusing on short tandem repeats (STRs). The process involves several steps including sample collection, DNA extraction, quantification, PCR amplification, STR analysis, and comparison to establish identity. Its applications span criminal investigations, paternity testing, missing person identification, and exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals, though challenges such as contamination, partial profiles, and ethical issues persist.

Uploaded by

Hamid Anees
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Forensic DNA Typing

Forensic DNA typing is a scientific method used to identify individuals based on their unique
genetic makeup. It plays a crucial role in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and disaster
victim identification.
Principles of DNA Typing
Every individual (except identical twins) has a unique DNA sequence. Forensic DNA typing
focuses on analyzing specific regions of DNA, known as short tandem repeats (STRs), which
vary greatly among individuals. These STRs are highly polymorphic, making them ideal for
forensic comparisons.
Steps in Forensic DNA Typing
1. Sample Collection – DNA is collected from biological evidence such
as blood, saliva, hair, or skin cells.
2. DNA Extraction – The DNA is isolated from the collected sample using
chemical or enzymatic methods.
3. DNA Quantification – The amount of DNA is measured to ensure
sufficient material for analysis.
4. PCR Amplification – The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to
amplify specific DNA regions.
5. STR Analysis – The amplified DNA is analyzed using capillary
electrophoresis to determine the STR patterns.
6. Comparison and Interpretation – The DNA profile is compared to
known samples, databases, or suspects to establish identity.
Applications of Forensic DNA Typing
 Criminal Investigations – DNA evidence links suspects to crime
scenes.
 Paternity and Kinship Testing – Confirms biological relationships.
 Identification of Missing Persons – Helps in disaster victim
identification.
 Exoneration of Wrongfully Convicted Individuals – Provides
crucial evidence in appeals.
Challenges in DNA Typing
 Contamination and Degradation – DNA samples can degrade over
time or get contaminated.
 Partial Profiles – Sometimes, only a small portion of DNA is available.
 Legal and Ethical Issues – Privacy concerns and data protection are
critical.
Forensic DNA typing is a powerful tool in modern forensic science, offering high accuracy in
solving crimes and identifying individuals.

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