DNA Analysis: The Most Effective Tool For Forensic Investigations
How many times have we heard of Crime Investigating agencies carrying out Forensic Investigation on the site of a crime? And how many times have we hear of the analysis of DNA from the crime site? In all probabilities, the answer would be "Almost all the time". The reason being the DNA sample of a person is extremely unique to himself and studies have proved the fact that no two DNA samples can match. As is, current DNA research studies have proved that DNA sequence unique to the species can be determined with ease. Though to get down to the level of determining individuals on the basis of DNA alone heavily relies on DNA sequencing technologies. The way out is for forensic scientists to scan more than 10 DNA regions. The data obtained from this exercise is used to create a DNA fingerprint of the individual also called as the DNA profile. Scientific studies have proved that DNA profiles of two individuals can never match. It is important that we understand that for DNA to be used effectively in any purpose, specifically forensic research, those portions of DNA which vary the most amongst humans must be used. Non-usage of these portions will not throw accurate results out of the DNA testing. While the DNA testing is done, due importance is given to the fact that one tenth of 1% of DNA differs from person to person. That in itself is a big number totaling close to about 3 Million bases. Forensic research is done by detailing DNA analysis in a step-step procedure.
· First DNA samples from the event site are collected. Then the DNA samples from the person who has caused the event is collected. · This DNA sample is then analyzed and the DNA samples is then 'worked upon' by creating probes in the DNA samples. The ensuing design out of this activity gives a blueprint to the forensic researcher about the DNA sample of an individual. · If the DNA samples of the individual do not match the DNA samples collected from the crime site, the person is concluded as not having contributed to the event. · Conversely, if the DNA samples does match, it may not necessarily mean that the person contributed to the event. And this is where the catch is. Though DNA Analysis figuratively tell you if the person might have contributed to the event, the fact that the same DNA samples could be found in another individual twists the case a bit. DNA analysis has been a subject of big debate whether it should be used in forensic research and especially crime investigations. Scientists are already working on ensuring that DNA analysis is indeed a foolproof method for freezing on suspects. I would suggest that DNA analysis results combined with effective investigation will win the deal. |
