Genetic fingerprinting
Genetic Fingerprinting
Genetic fingerprinting (pronunciation: /dʒɪˈnɛtɪk ˈfɪŋɡərprɪntɪŋ/), also known as DNA 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 "genetic fingerprinting" was first coined by the British geneticist Alec Jeffreys in 1984, who discovered the technique. The term is derived from the fact that it involves the identification of unique patterns in an individual's DNA, much like a fingerprint.
Process
The process of genetic 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 and can be used to identify them.
Applications
Genetic fingerprinting has many applications, including in Forensic Science where it is used to identify suspects in criminal investigations, and in Paternity Testing where it is used to determine biological parentage. It is also used in Conservation Biology to track genetic diversity in endangered species.
Related Terms
- DNA: The molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction: A technique used to amplify a specific region of DNA.
- Gel Electrophoresis: A technique used to separate DNA fragments by size.
- Forensic Science: The application of science to criminal and civil laws.
- Paternity Testing: The use of DNA profiling to determine whether two individuals are biologically parent and child.
- Conservation Biology: The study of the conservation of nature and of Earth's biodiversity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Genetic fingerprinting
- Wikipedia's article - Genetic fingerprinting
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