NCJ Number
112351
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 36 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1988) Pages: 22-28
Date Published
1988
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article presents a case history to explain the use of DNA and genetic fingerprinting techniques in investigating violent crimes.
Abstract
The discussion focuses on the procedure used by Lifecodes Corporation, a DNA-based genetic diagnostic research laboratory, to extract DNA from a specimen such as semen, blood, or tissue, and chemically dividing the DNA into fragments. DNA is described as a molecule that is housed in every nucleated cell in the human body and often called 'the body's blueprints' because they carry genetic codes. The article covers how DNA print testing works and describes how forensic investigators compare two DNA fragment patterns.