Chapter Highlights: Forensic Serology and DNA (Chapters 1-7)

Five flashcards covering serology vs DNA, ABO typing, seminal fluid detection, mtDNA inheritance, and the genetic code.

Before DNA typing, which forensic technique was the primary method for identifying body fluids at a crime scene?

Forensic serology.

In the ABO blood typing system, which antigen-antibody reactions cause agglutination for types A, B, AB, and O?

Type A agglutinates with anti-A, type B with anti-B, type AB with both anti-A and anti-B, and type O with neither.

What presumptive test is used to detect seminal fluid by producing a purple color quickly when acid phosphatase reacts, and is useful for testing many garments?

The acid phosphatase test.

How does mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) inheritance differ from nuclear DNA inheritance?

mtDNA is circular and inherited maternally (from the mother), while nuclear DNA is linear and inherited from both parents.

What is the start codon in the genetic code and which amino acid does it specify?

The start codon is AUG, and it encodes methionine (Met).