DNA fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting is a laboratory technique used to identify an individual by analyzing the unique differences in their DNA. It examines and compares specific DNA sequences, after isolating the sequences of interest, usually short tandem repeats (STRs), to develop a unique molecular profile. It is used for forensic science, paternity tests and genetic research.
Further explanation includes:

• What it is:
  DNA fingerprinting looks at the place the gene variation occurs in a DNA sequence, looking at repeated sequences only since it is short repeating sequences of DNA that are unique and the basis for identification.
• How it works:
  To fingerprint DNA, the DNA must be isolated from the sample and digested with restriction enzymes. The DNA is then separated by size using gel electrophoresis. The equivalent patterns are compared to generate a unique profile.
• Uses:
• Forensic Science: DNA fingerprinting is used to identify individuals at crime scenes, such as on weapons. It can also be used to compare suspect samples with evidence from the scene and victim DNA evidence. Therefore, it has the ability to convict a guilty suspect or provide exoneration for an innocent suspect.
• Paternity tests: DNA fingerprinting will determine if there is a biological relationship between an individual – child relationship.
• Genetic research: DNA fingerprinting can help identify genetic markers for disease, and provide insight into how traits are inherited, such as pedigree analysis, and how animals and relatives or foods are related to each other.
• Other uses: DNA fingerprinting could be used to identify victims of natural disasters, match tissue donors to recipients, and measure diversity among microbes.
• Accuracy:
  A DNA fingerprint is usually extremely accurate, and with today’s data bases, DNA fingerprints are used in many countries to keep DNA records like what fingerprints do.