Chapter 24.5, Problem 33LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The scientific methods that can be applied to the process of DNA fingerprinting are to be described.

Concept introduction: DNA fingerprinting is a technique used to identify an individual from a DNA sample by analyzing the individual's unique DNA patterns.

Answer to Problem 33LC

DNA fingerprinting method is used in the legal system as evidence, as well as in the identification of remains, the search for biological relations, and the investigation of medical conditions.

Explanation of Solution

DNA fingerprinting is a chemical test that reveals a person's or other organism's genetic composition. Any DNA sample discovered at a crime scene can be analyzed for the degree of polymorphism in noncoding repetitive sequences.

Tracing the DNA profile makes it easy to identify the offender by DNA fingerprinting on the suspects. Fingerprinting applications are also beneficial for locating the parents of an unclaimed infant by running a paternity test on a sample of the baby's DNA.

Conclusion

DNA fingerprinting method is used in the legal system as evidence, as well as in the identification of remains, the search for biological relations, and the investigation of medical conditions.