Forensic Serology and DNA Analysis

This set of flashcards focuses on key terms and concepts in forensic serology and DNA analysis as discussed in the lecture.

Forensic Serology

The application of the study of blood, semen, saliva, and other body fluids to legal matters.

Antigens

Substances located on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood-type characteristics.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that contains proteins known as antibodies.

Blood Typing

The determination of an individual's blood type based on the presence or absence of antigens and antibodies.

Agglutination

The clumping of blood cells in response to the interaction of antigens and antibodies.

Precipitin Test

A test used to determine whether a bloodstain is of human or animal origin by identifying specific proteins.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme involved in the DNA replication process that assembles new DNA strands.

Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)

Short repeated sequences within DNA that vary in number among individuals and are used for DNA profiling.

Y-STRs

Short tandem repeats located on the Y chromosome, which are male-specific markers for DNA typing.

Mitochondrial DNA

DNA inherited solely from the mother that is used for maternal lineage tracing and analysis.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

A technique for amplifying small quantities of DNA to generate sufficient material for analysis.

Nuclear DNA

DNA located in the nucleus that is inherited from both parents and forms the basis for individual genetic identity.

Chain of Custody

The process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence to prevent contamination and ensure integrity.

PSA Test

A test to identify seminal fluid based on levels of Prostate Specific Antigen, which is found in higher concentrations in semen.

RFLP

Restriction fragment length polymorphism; a technique for DNA typing based on variations in DNA fragment lengths.

Blood Color Tests

Tests such as the Kastle-Meyer test that indicate the presence of blood through color reactions.

Seminal Fluid

Fluid that contains sperm and is tested for presence during sexual assault investigations.