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Forensic DNA Tests
In this image we see
the results from a Genetic Paternity test. The DNA of each subject was
extracted and cut into fragments which are displayed as below. The mother
(M), Her
two children (Kid 1 and
Kid 2), and
two potential fathers (Dad 1 and Dad
2).
Each
band represents the DNA of that person. The children inherit their DNA
from both their mother and father. Therefore at least one "band"
in the Kids DNA should be found in the DNA of their parents (the actual
analyses are a little more complicated than these).
Let's look at the Bands that come from the mother (mouse over). We see that each child has one band that matches their mother.
The other Band in the Kids' DNA must come from their Father. Can you match the DNA of Kid 1 with one of the Fathers?
| Click to find out who is the Father of Kid 2. |
In DNA analyses from a crime scene the situation is similar but the DNA of the subject should exactly match that of samples from the crime scene. See if you can determine which suspect is guilty (#'s 1 - 7). Guilty
The
application of DNA technology in forensic science has generated considerable
excitement, both in the criminal justice community and in the popular
media.
DNA typing has often been portrayed as a controversial technology, largely because it has been so characterized by many defense attorneys. When DNA evidence demonstrates that the odds that someone other than your client committed the crime are one in a billion, there is really nowhere else to go but to attack the basic technology of DNA testing. With increased experience and standardization of testing methods, these assaults are heard less frequently.
There are still several ethical problems concerning DNA testing; For example: Should DNA taken for identification be used to determine other genetic characteristics? Should there be different standards of admissibility for DNA evidence compared with other types of evidence? Should there be regulation or accreditation of laboratories that provide DNA services. Data banks will be established for DNA information, how will these be controlled?
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