WHAT IS DNA FINGERPRINTING?- A BASIC DESCRIPTION
Well to be able to understand what DNA fingerprinting is and what it involves you must first understand what a DNA fingerprint is. A DNA fingerprint is an unique sequence of DNA base pairs that can be used to identify a person at molecular level. You can not find them by "dusting for prints". It is only called a "fingerprint" because it is unique to each individual like a regular fingerprint is. Now DNA fingerprinting is a test that identifies and examines the DNA (genetic information known as deoxyribonucleic acid) in a person's cells or in other words a test that examines DNA fingerprints. It can be used in many ways. This test can be used to establish paternity by determining who someone's parents or siblings are, as well as identifying the parents of babies who were switched at birth. It is also used to solve crimes, by using it as a laboratory technique to form a connection between biological evidence and a suspect in a criminal investigation. DNA fingerprinting can even help identify a body. It is extremely helpful in cases where a body has decomposed a significant amount or if only certain body parts remain such as after a natural disaster.