DNA analysis is an important technology that brought light in explaining most concepts that would be impossible to articulate. DNA tests can be used in both forensics and paternity tests to effectively link one’s DNA to a certain occurrence.
The process of identifying DNA
DNA testing takes place in reliable labs with dedicated equipment and facilities meeting requirements provided by FBI stringent QAS. In the first place, once the evidence has been delivered to the forensic lab, extraction is performed and the DNA is released from the cell. Quantification is then performed to determine the quantity of DNA present which is then produced in multiple copies to characterize it in a process called amplification. The DNA products are then separated to allow subsequent identification which are then analyzed and interpreted by comparing the DNA results from known samples of DNA profiles. Finally, quality assurance is performed where the analyst report is reviewed for technical accuracy.
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Analyzing DNA and challenges involved
To effectively analyze DNA, two main forms of analyses can be employed. In the first place, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) can be used where the enzymes (polymerase) are used to replicate DNA regions inside the test tube. This can effectively increase small numbers of DNA molecules to billions within hour. This number enhances the identification of highly degradable DNA evidence which is then effectively analyzed by specific experts.
The second analysis is the Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis which evaluates specific regions known as loci located on nuclear DNA. Here, the variable characteristic of the STR regions analyzed in forensic testing increases the discrimination between DNA profiles basing on a standard STR loci provided by the FBI. The end results are significantly different and can form a base for effective analysis.
Challenges of DNA testing
The DNA results may be inadmissible to the court if the DNA samples were contaminated due to improper collection and storage the DNA evidence. The expertise used can to present and interpret DNA results should be qualified by experience, skill, or education failure to which the results may be inadmissible in the court. Additionally, the general acceptance of the technology used in identifying the DNA should meet the standards required by the FBI failure to which the results may be inadmissible in the court.
How Tissue Matches are made
In tissue matching, tests are conducted to determine similarities in proteins, antigens between the recipient and the donor. The more the similarities in the antigens between two people the better the expected outcomes. The organ transplant could be rejected if the donor’s tissue does not have the required commonality with that of the recipient and if possible, the entire process will have to start again.
Importance of using different DNA testing methods
There are several types of DNA testing present such as solid phase extraction, Chelex extraction, and organic extraction. Using different DNA testing methods is vital and factors that determine the type of DNA used include the cost, safety, time, and contamination risks. In terms of cost, organic extraction is more preferable although its contamination risks are high. The Chelex method is used when time matters the most since it is faster and it also has less contamination risks. Solid phase extraction is an easy method and it uses only one tube but it is the most method.
Steps used in DNA Paternity testing
A child receives half DNA from both biological parents and during DNA testing the child’s genetic characteristics are compared to that from the mother and characteristics that are absent in the mother must have originated from the father. The alleged biological father of the child can be ruled out totally if his DNA pattern does not match with that of the child in two or more probes of DNA. The likelihood of successful paternity is 99.9% if the DNA patterns between the child, mother, and alleged father match in the used DNA probes.
A paternity test is significant in the court case to the alleged father as it holds him accountable to support the child. Unwilling fathers may be compelled to be accountable to the child while willing fathers can be granted visitation rights and custody to the child. Both the mother and the child stand to gain financial support from the father in case of a successful paternity test in a court case.
Conclusion
DNA tests are vital in forensics used in court cases involving collected evidence at crime scenes that may be linked to the potential suspects. Other than forensics, DNA tests are also vital in paternity tests that can hold the father accountable for the child.
