DNA Analysis Flashcard

Front

What is nuclear DNA used for in forensic science?

Back

Nuclear DNA can be used to identify an individual to the exclusion of all others, except for identical twins.

Front

What type of DNA is used in familial DNA searches?

Back

Familial DNA searches use mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences.

Front

How can you determine the gender from a DNA profile?

Back

A DNA profile can indicate gender; for example, a profile showing XX indicates female.

Front

What complicates DNA analysis and interpretation of results?

Back

Mixtures and degraded DNA can complicate DNA analysis and interpretation.

Front

What is the significance of STR in DNA analysis?

Back

Short Tandem Repeats (STR) are used in DNA profiling to identify individuals based on unique patterns.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear DNA and mtDNA?

Back

Nuclear DNA is inherited from both parents and is unique to each individual, while mtDNA is inherited maternally and is used for tracing maternal lineage.

Front

What are the implications of using DNA from identical twins in forensic cases?

Back

DNA from identical twins is indistinguishable, making it difficult to identify one twin over the other in forensic cases.

Front

What does a DNA profile indicate about a suspect?

Back

A DNA profile can match a suspect to biological evidence found at a crime scene, indicating potential involvement.

Front

What is the role of Y-STR in DNA analysis?

Back

Y-STR (Y-chromosome Short Tandem Repeats) are used to trace paternal lineage and can identify male individuals in a mixed sample.

Front

What are the limitations of DNA evidence in court?

Back

Limitations include the possibility of contamination, the presence of mixtures, and the interpretation of degraded samples.