DNA Analysis

Abstract

DNA analysis is also commonly known as DNA profiling, DNA typing and genetic fingerprinting. It is a scientific technique employed by forensic scientists to identify individuals on the basis of their DNA. The major developments that have taken place in the field of forensic science relate with the collection and analysis of various kinds of evidence.

DNA testing has always been a subject of controversy and both proponents and opponents of the idea have strong reasons to support their belief. DNA analysis plays a pivotal role in legal processes as the decision making gets faster and more authentic. Hence, it also has an influence on the police work.

The paper discusses the role that DNA analysis has played in forensic science through the ages, success and failures of DNA analysis in light of case studies and advancements in technology. DNA analysis plays a crucial role in forensic science and has aided in criminal investigations in spite of the limitations of technology and reliability of results.

Table of Contents

Introduction4

History of forensic science4

Scientific changes and methodologies in DNA analysis5

Successes and failures of DNA Analysis7

Advances in technology8

Influence of DNA analysis on police work9

Conclusion10

References11

DNA Analysis

Introduction

DNA analysis is also commonly known as DNA profiling, DNA typing and genetic fingerprinting. It is a scientific technique employed by forensic scientists to identify individuals on the basis of their DNA. Very commonly, DNA analysis is confused with full genome sequencing when in reality it is another technique altogether (Innocence Project, 2012). The use of DNA testing in forensic science dates back many centuries and has been used to assist with criminal investigations (Thompson, 2008).

The paper discusses the role that DNA analysis has played in forensic science through the ages, success and failures of DNA analysis in light of case studies and advancements in technology. DNA analysis plays a crucial role in forensic science and has aided in criminal investigations in spite of the limitations of technology and reliability of results.

History of Forensic Science

In order to understand the link between DNA analysis and forensic science, it is first imperative to shed some light on the history of forensic science. The history of forensic science is as old as the history of crime. This is reflected in the pre-historic use of fingerprints in rock carvings and painting of the era.

In addition, there are certain cases of serial killers, the evidence of which exists even today (Caudill, 2008). Crime detection is based on a single factor - finding the connection between the crime and the criminal and this precisely what is done through DNA analysis in forensic science.

The major developments that have taken place in the field of forensic science relate with the collection and analysis of various kinds of evidence. While some relate to problem solving, others pertain to decision making. The scientists of the era tried to work on both the physical as well as biological evidence collection (Quinlan, 2010).

The most interesting phase of the history of forensic science begins in the 1950 with the first ever description of ...