Dna Testing Lab Report

Words: 831
Pages: 4

Introduction

DNA analysis is the process in which evaluates the genetic material so that it can be used to identify individuals for use in a forensic/criminal investigation. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material that is found in almost all organisms. It is found in the nucleus of the cell and also small amounts can be found in the mitochondria and nearly each cell in a human’s body has the same DNA. But what is DNA made up of? Well it is made up of a code of four chemical bases which include adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G) and cytosine (C). Only adenine and thymine can pair up with one another and it’s the same with cytosine and guanine. Each of these bases are also attached to a glucose molecule (C6H12O6) and a phosphate molecule (P).
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Tests to determine the likelihood of paternity are considered to be 99.99& conclusive and can be used in establishing child support orders. Not only is DNA testing used to determine paternity but it is also used to determine other family members which include twins separated at birth. Sometimes hospitals confuse children and give the parents the wrong baby, however, maternity testing can conclusively identify which child belongs to the mother.

DNA testing can be used to determine whether a person is at-risk for developing a disease. If it is found that a person is at-risk for a disease they can take the necessary action to reducing the risk. DNA testing can determine whether parents are carrying genes that can affect their child.

A major issue/concern regarding DNA testing is data confusion. When testing is used inappropriately can create a system of wrongful convictions. Errors such as contamination of DNA are used to make a certain outcome in court. But the contamination of DNA can be monitored quite easily by controlling access by unauthorized personnel and separating of work areas for evidence examination and DNA