After looking at the animation try these questions.

 

Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific base sequences
True
 False

In electrophoresis DNA fragments move to the negative electrode.

True
 false

 

Southern blotting involves using
blotting paper
 DNA primer
 a nylon membrane
 ligase

 

The speed at which the DNA fragments move to the electrode depends on
the base sequences
 the size of the fragments
 the radioactive probe
 the presence of RNA

 

Genetic Fingerprinting

 

Making a genetic fingerprint

A genetic (DNA) fingerprint is a DNA-based pattern composed of series of bands of different sizes. Any individual is likely to produce a unique combination of bands, hence the term ‘fingerprint’.

For an explanation of how a genetic fingerprint is made have a look at the animation. Click on the option to run it from it's current location and click yes at the next box as well.

Click here to run the animation.

Using genetic fingerprints

The chances of two individuals producing identical fingerprints is very small. So genetic fingerprinting can be used to identify individuals. It can also be used to determine family relationships.

For this reason genetic fingerprinting plays a key role in modern forensic science. To understand how it can be used run the forensic science animation. Click on the option to run it from it's current location and click yes at the next box as well.

 

It is not just in forensic science that genetic fingerprinting has a role. Conservation biologists use it to assess the degree of inbreeding in small isolated populations. Evolutionary biologists use the technique to see how closely related different species are.