Contents
Why is PCR important in forensics?
Forensic science PCR allows DNA to be identified from tiny samples – a single molecule of DNA can be enough for PCR amplification. Find out more about DNA extraction, DNA profiling, Forensics – interesting facts, Forensics and DNA or try out the activity DNA detective.
Why is PCR often needed?
PCR has become an important tool for medical diagnosis. PCR can detect and identify bacteria and viruses that cause infections such as tuberculosis, chlamydia, viral meningitis, viral hepatitis, HIV, cytomegalovirus and many others. PCR is used to amplify the gene, which is then sequenced to look for mutations.
Why is PCR useful in crime scene analysis?
DNA collection and analysis is an integral part of CSI, and the samples obtained are often extremely low in concentration and low quality. Thus, PCR is routinely used to amplify this DNA to amounts that can be analyzed further by methods such as fingerprinting, sequencing, etc. to identify people involved in the crime.
What are the advantages of PCR in forensic science?
Other advantages of PCR in forensic science are that scientists can use it to amplify VNTRs from the sample, even if only trace amounts of DNA are present initially. Often forensic scientists must work with very small amounts of DNA, so the ability to use a small or partially degraded sample is vital.
How is PCR used in DNA fingerprinting?
PCR can be used as a tool in genetic fingerprinting. This technology can identify any one person from millions of others. For example, tiny samples of DNA isolated from a crime scene can be compared with DNA from suspects, or compared with a DNA database.
How are crimes solved by PCR in the future?
PCR has therefore revolutionised forensic science and criminal investigations, and in combination with traditional detective work, it will continue to be a powerful investigative tool in the future. 1. Jeffreys AJ, Wilson V, Thein SL. Hypervariable ‘minisatellite’ regions in human DNA. Nature. 1985;314 (6006):67-73.
How is DNA profiling used in forensic science?
DNA profiling (DNA typing, genetic fingerprinting, DNA testing) is a technique used by forensic scientists to identify someone based on their DNA profile. PCR can be used as a tool in genetic fingerprinting.