DNA Fingerprinting

What is a DNA fingerprint?

A unique pattern of genetic information obtained from analyzing a person’s DNA

How are DNA Fingerprints and real fingerprints similar?

Both have unique patterns and can be used to identify someone

How are DNA fingerprints and real fingerprints different?

Real fingerprints have visible ridge patterns and minutiae characteristics

What is a DNA Fingerprint used for?

To identify individuals by their unique dna patterns

How are DNA fingerprints obtained?

By extracting DNA and using gel electrophoresis to see unique dna fragments

How are restriction enzymes used?

to cut and separate DNA at specific sites to create fragments

Where do restriction enzymes come from?

Bacteria

What is gel electrophoresis?

A technique using electric currents to separate DNA from proteins

How is DNA separated on the gel?

By size and charge

What are STRs?

Short Tandem Repeats (found in DNA sequences)

What do STR bands allow us to do?

Analyze sequences and match them with similar dna