Interpret how DNA is used for comparison and identification
of organisms.
of organisms.
DNA Fingerprinting
DNA is amazing resource when identifying or comparing organisms. By using a DNA fingerprint constructed with Gel Electrophoresis, you can determine many things. The most obvious use of this technology is solving a murder. Although a murderer or criminal may not have left fingerprints at the crime scene, they have shed a hair or sneezed. By using Gel Electrophoresis, you can use the mucus or hair to determine with suspect is the closest match to the DNA found at the crime scene. In the case above, it would be suspect two.
Although, as I stated, this is the most obvious use of this technology, it is certainly not the only one. DNA Fingerprinting can be used to determine if two organisms are related. For instance, if a new species is discovered and scientists are unsure about how it should be classified, they can compare its DNA fingerprint to similar organisms to assist in making the decision. This technology can also be used for paternity tests, and helping an adopted child find their biological parents.
Although, as I stated, this is the most obvious use of this technology, it is certainly not the only one. DNA Fingerprinting can be used to determine if two organisms are related. For instance, if a new species is discovered and scientists are unsure about how it should be classified, they can compare its DNA fingerprint to similar organisms to assist in making the decision. This technology can also be used for paternity tests, and helping an adopted child find their biological parents.