DNA fingerprinting & paternity tests

What is DNA profiling also called?

DNA fingerprinting

What is DNA?

A molecule found in cells that contains genetic information determining traits like eye colour and height

What does DNA profiling involve?

Analyzing specific regions of DNA to create a unique profile

What is the purpose of DNA profiling?

To identify individuals based on their unique DNA patterns

What are some uses of DNA profiling?

Identifying suspects in criminal investigations, identifying bodies or missing people, and paternity testing

How is a DNA profile compared?

By checking if the DNA patterns in two samples match

What is paternity testing?

A type of DNA testing used to determine if a man is the biological father of a child

How does paternity testing work?

It compares the child's DNA to the alleged father's DNA for matching markers not found in the mother's DNA

What samples can be used for paternity testing?

Blood, buccal (cheek) swabs, and hair samples

What is the most common sample used in paternity tests?

Buccal (cheek) swabs

How are buccal swabs collected?

By swabbing the inside of the cheek with a cotton swab

Why are buccal swabs preferred in DNA tests?

They are non-invasive, easy to collect, and contain enough DNA for analysis

Why is DNA profiling important in criminal cases?

It can link suspects to crime scenes or exclude innocent individuals

How can DNA profiling identify a missing person?

By comparing their DNA profile to that of family members or stored records