DNA Profiling (Leaving Cert Biology): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
DNA Profiling
infoNote
DNA profiling (genetic fingerprinting) is a method of making a unique pattern of bands from the DNA of a person, which can then be used to distinguish that DNA from other DNA.
How to prepare a DNA profile:
- DNA is extracted from a person's cells (e.g., blood, hair follicle, bodily fluid) using a detergent, which dissolves the cell membranes (lipids).
- The isolated DNA is cut into fragments using special enzymes called restriction enzymes.
- The sections of DNA that are cut are called restriction fragments.
- The restriction fragments are separated based on their size using gel electrophoresis.
- Smaller fragments move faster through the gel than larger fragments.
- The DNA profile can be viewed under UV light. Each profile looks like a bar code. The profile is different for each person.
Uses of DNA profiles
- Crime: DNA profiles are used to link a person to a crime or a crime scene.
- Medical: DNA profiles can be used to establish if a man is the father of a child (paternity test).