Anybody looking for information about forensic DNA will come across a number of related terms e.g. genetic fingerprinting, DNA testing, DNA typing, DNA profiling etc. The important thing to note is that all of these terms refer to techniques and scientific procedures that can be employed to differentiate between individuals; as such, DNA in a legal context is synonymous with forensic identification.
According to the Human Genome Project Information website, the forensic identification process involves forensic scientists scanning 13 DNA regions. Data extracted is then used to create an individual DNA profile (also known as a DNA fingerprint). The Human Genome Project Information website lists a number of DNA Uses for Forensic Identification, these include:
Identify potential suspects whose DNA may match evidence left at crime scenes
Exonerate persons wrongly accused of crimes
Identify crime and catastrophe victims
Establish paternity and other family relationships
Identify endangered and protected species
Detect bacteria and other organisms that may pollute air, water, soil, and food
Match organ donors with recipients in transplant programs
Determine pedigree for seed or livestock breeds
Authenticate consumables such as caviar and wine
We strongly recommend you pay a visit to the forensics section of the Human Genome Project Information website. In addition to the details outlined above, this excellent resource also includes information on how is DNA typing is done, some of the DNA technologies used in forensic investigations, ethical, legal, and social issues associated with DNA Databanking. There is also a comprehensive DNA forensics links section.
See following link to find out more about our forensic DNA expert in focus Dr. Dean Hildebrand, Program Head of British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Centre for Forensic and Security Technology Studies.
Forensic DNA Typing, Second Edition: Biology, Technology, and Genetics of STR Markers By John M. Butler
Editorial Review
An exceptionally comprehensive reference, touching on every relevant aspect of current forensic DNA typing practice...will serve many practitioners and students of forensic DNA typing as a single source reference...It is hard to think of a topic in forensic DNA typing that is not treated in the book...A final point is that the book is a phenomenal bargain in this day and age at around $80 a copy. (Journal of Forensic Sciences)
High quality DNA pictures that you can use for free in your science projects, presentations, lectures, teaching materials etc. You can access the pictures via the following link.