genetic fingerprinting Flashcards
1
Q
What is genetic fingerprinting
A
A technique used to compare 2 DNA samples and determine whether they came from the same individual
2
Q
How does genetic fingerprinting work
A
- Every organism genome contains non coding regions called variable number tandem repeats (VNTRS)
- problem of 2 individuals having the same VNTRS is very low, so we can compare these areas to see if 2 DNA samples came from the same person
3
Q
Summarise the process of genetic fingerprinting analysis
A
- DNA sample obtained, VNTRs cut out using restriction enzymes, labelled and coned using PCR
- Fragments secreted using gel electrophoresis
- banding patterns of each sample can be compared
4
Q
How does gel electrophoresis work
A
- DNA fragments are placed at one end of a slab of gel
- an electric current is applied causing the DNA fragments to move towards the other end of the gel
- shorter fragments travel further
- pattern of band created is unique to the individual
5
Q
Application of gentics fingerprinting
A
- forensics
- medical diagnosis: identify type of haemoglobin produced by someone with sickle cell anaemia
- animal and plant breeding: breed out harmful alleles
