DNA FINGERPRINTING

Dr. Kamal Singla*, Dr. Yashoda Rani, Dr. Kuldeep Panchal, Dr. Rishabh Kumar Singh, Dr. Vivek Chouksey

ABSTRACT

DNA profiling (DNA fingerprinting) is a technique employed by forensic scientists to assist in the identification of individuals by their respective DNA profiles. DNA profiling should not be confused with full genome sequencing. Every individual in the world can be identified at the molecular level on the basis of an extremely high level of polymorphism in the sequence of his or her DNA, which he or she inherits from his or her biological parents and is identical in every cell of the body. Although 99.9% of human DNA sequences are the same in every person, enough of the DNA is different that it is possible to distinguish one individual from another, unless they are monozygotic twins. DNA profiling uses repetitive sequences that are highly variable called variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) in particular short tandem repeats (STRs). VNTRs loci are very similar between closely related humans, but are so variable that unrelated individuals are extremely unlikely to have the same VNTRs. The application of DNA profiling in the criminal justice system is an important issue in criminal investigators today. The technology is changing rapidly and several new techniques are becoming available. DNA profiling has been described as a powerful breakthrough in forensic science. The forensic use of DNA profiling is a major contribution to a technology which can help not only in including the culprit but also to exclude the innocent.

Keywords: DNA, STRs, VNTRs.