DNA fingerprinting
DNA Fingerprinting
DNA fingerprinting (pronunciation: /diː.eɪ. ˈfɪŋɡərˌprɪntɪŋ/), also known as DNA profiling or genetic fingerprinting, is a method used to identify an individual from a sample of DNA by looking at unique patterns in their DNA.
Etymology
The term "DNA fingerprinting" was first coined by the British geneticist Alec Jeffreys in 1985, who discovered the technique. The term is derived from the fact that it is used to identify individuals in a similar way to how fingerprints are used in forensic science.
Process
The process of DNA fingerprinting involves extracting DNA from a sample, such as blood or hair, and then using a technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to make many copies of specific regions of the DNA. These regions are then separated by size using a process called Gel Electrophoresis. The resulting pattern of bands is unique to each individual, much like a fingerprint.
Applications
DNA fingerprinting has many applications, including in Forensic Science to identify suspects in criminal investigations, in Paternity Testing to determine biological parentage, and in Genetic Research to study genetic diseases and biodiversity.
Related Terms
- Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
- Genotype: The genetic constitution of an individual organism.
- Phenotype: The set of observable characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.
- Allele: One of two or more alternative forms of a gene that arise by mutation and are found at the same place on a chromosome.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on DNA fingerprinting
- Wikipedia's article - DNA fingerprinting
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