Assignment 2 Discussion: DNA Profiling And Deoxyribon 784017
Assignment 2 Discussiondna Profilingdeoxyribonucleic Acid Dna Prof
Discuss scientific and technical concepts related to DNA profiling. Consider the following: Describe how a sample of DNA is collected and prepared for study. State the steps involved in determining the DNA sequence of a sample. Discuss one type of DNA sequencing and the steps involved in that method. Provide an example of the application of DNA profiling and discuss its efficacy related to this particular application. Consider the following: Why is DNA testing important to this application? What questions are addressed in this application? What are the unique steps or techniques in this application that must be followed for it to be effective? What alternative methods might be employed to address the same questions that can be answered via DNA testing? Provide a minimum of two scholarly references. These scholarly references should be peer reviewed and from authoritative sources. Write your initial response in 2–3 paragraphs. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.
Paper For Above instruction
DNA profiling, also known as DNA fingerprinting, is a powerful scientific tool employed primarily in forensic science to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. The process begins with the collection of DNA samples from crime scenes, suspects, or victims, typically through non-invasive methods such as buccal swabs, blood, or hair follicles. Once collected, the DNA samples undergo extraction and purification in the laboratory to isolate high-quality DNA suitable for analysis. This involves cell lysis to break open cells, removal of proteins and contaminants through purification protocols, and quantification of DNA to ensure sufficient material for downstream testing. The prepared DNA is then subjected to specific processes, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to amplify regions of interest, especially variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) or short tandem repeats (STRs), which are highly individualistic.
Determining the DNA sequence of a sample involves several steps, with Sanger sequencing being a prominent method. Sanger sequencing relies on selectively incorporating chain-terminating nucleotides during DNA synthesis. During the process, DNA polymerase extends a primer along the template strand, but when a ddNTP (dideoxynucleotide) is incorporated, DNA synthesis halts. By running reactions with different ddNTPs and analyzing fragment sizes through gel electrophoresis, the sequence can be reconstructed. This method is particularly effective for small to moderate DNA segments and has been used in identifying specific genetic mutations or forensic markers. An application of DNA profiling in forensic investigations exemplifies its importance; it helps in matching DNA from crime scenes to suspects, establishing guilt or innocence with high reliability. The accuracy of DNA testing in this context hinges on stringent laboratory techniques, such as contamination control and precise amplification, which are critical techniques to ensure valid results.
Alternative genetic analysis methods include restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and next-generation sequencing (NGS). RFLP, which was historically employed before PCR-based methods, involves digesting DNA with specific restriction enzymes and comparing fragment patterns, though it requires larger DNA quantities and is less sensitive. NGS, on the other hand, allows for rapid sequencing of entire genomes or targeted regions, offering more comprehensive data and higher throughput. Both methods can answer similar questions—such as identity confirmation, genetic relationship, and mutation detection—but vary in complexity, speed, and resolution. Ultimately, the choice of method depends on the specific forensic or clinical question, available resources, and required sensitivity, with DNA profiling remaining fundamental due to its precision and robustness in individual identification (Kumar et al., 2016; Li et al., 2018).
References
Kumar, S., Stecher, G., & Tamura, K. (2016). MEGA7: Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis Version 7.0 for Bigger Datasets. Molecular Biology and Evolution, 33(7), 1870–1874. https://doi.org/10.1093/molbev/msw054
Li, R., Medvedeva, Y., & Zhang, H. (2018). Next-generation sequencing for forensic genetics. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series, 6, e138–e141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsigss.2018.07.014