subject: What Are the Most Common DNA Fingerprinting Techniques? [print this page] What Are the Most Common DNA Fingerprinting Techniques?
Varieties of processes are currently in use when it comes to profiling the genetic makeup of humans. Modern DNA fingerprinting techniques are able to identify with certainty criminals and it is useful for solving all manner of crimes. When someone commits a crime, he or she always leaves behind some form of evidence. The advent of this technology has made it far easier for law enforcement to positively identify the criminal and solve the crime. This technology has also been used successfully to solve cold cases, or crimes that have gone unsolved for years, even those committed before this kind of testing was invented.
Many types of genetic material are used for these tests, including hair, tissue, saliva, and blood. Some of the common techniques available when it comes to DNA fingerprinting include single locus and multilocus. The single locus method will be able to identify the DNA genotype. Multilocus simply means that the test is repeated several times. You will find that the single locus tests are less expensive, and in most cases that is all anyone needs. This is certainly the best choice when you are going to a commercial facility.
The test is useful for many applications. Of course, the one that is most recognizable is when the test is used to help solve a crime and is admitted as evidence in a court of law. However, the test is also valuable for those who are trying to get to the bottom of a paternity case. The single locus test is also the most common type of test available. You will find that most of the commercial labs that offer testing will offer the single locus test, and this is usually all you will ever need.
No matter the reason that you are considering a test of this variety, you can be sure of the results. DNA is something that doesn't lie, something that can't be hidden. As more and more time passes, it is probable that you will begin to see more of this testing. In addition, it is probable that the techniques used will become simpler over time, meaning that you will be able to get the results even faster.
