Tue Mar 25 03:00:00 UTC 2025: ## DNA Fingerprinting: A Powerful Tool for Identification and Beyond
**Hyderabad, March 25, 2025** – DNA fingerprinting, a revolutionary technique utilizing an individual’s unique genetic code, is transforming various fields, from forensic science to ancestry tracing. A recent article in *The Hindu* explains the science behind this powerful tool and its diverse applications.
The article details how each person’s DNA, contained within the 46 molecules in every cell, is distinct due to variations called polymorphisms. These variations, particularly in short tandem repeats (STRs), form the basis of a DNA fingerprint – a unique profile akin to an individual’s Aadhaar number.
The process of creating a DNA fingerprint involves several key steps. First, scientists extract DNA from various sources, including blood, saliva, or even ancient remains. Then, using a technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), they amplify specific STR regions to create millions of copies for analysis. Capillary electrophoresis separates these DNA fragments by size, allowing scientists to create a unique profile based on the lengths of the STRs.
The article highlights the remarkable stability of DNA, enabling analysis of samples from extremely old remains. This stability has been crucial in solving cold cases and exonerating wrongly convicted individuals. The applications extend beyond criminal investigations; DNA fingerprinting is also used to establish parentage, identify disaster victims, and assist in organ donation procedures.
D.P. Kasbekar, a retired scientist and INSA Honorary Scientist at the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics in Hyderabad, authored the article, offering a clear and accessible explanation of this complex scientific process and its far-reaching implications. The article underscores the significant role DNA fingerprinting plays in modern science and its potential for future advancements.
First Piper 