Genetic fingerprinting: What is it and what is it for?
Genetic fingerprinting: definition
When we talk about genetic fingerprinting, we refer to the assignment of a person's identity through each individual's sequences ; these are called genetic markers . It can also be defined as a genetic imprint or, sometimes, a genetic profile.
It should be noted that we are speaking of probabilities, based on the available information. However, today, screening and comparison systems have been refined to the point that, if the DNA sample is sufficient, identification accuracy approaches 100%. Furthermore, in paternity tests, a negative test result is 100% accurate.
The use of fingerprints as an identification device is used for both public and private purposes. Therefore, it's important to understand them better.
Practical applications of genetic fingerprinting
In recent decades, improvements in genetic research that allow for the identification of individuals have opened up new practical possibilities. The most important are:
1. Paternity tests
The identification of the genetic profile, as unique and unrepeatable, allows determine parentage with a minimum margin of error. To do this, two samples are taken and it is checked whether the genetic markers of the father match the other person's. Nowadays, in this type of test, a percentage is given to indicate whether the test is positive or negative.
A paradigmatic case is that of the Paternity tests , which can be required by court order or voluntary. The ease of performing a test allows the mystery of paternity to be resolved with certainty in just a few weeks. This point is especially important because determining paternity implies the right to pensions or inheritances.
In the past, definitively determining paternity was almost impossible, but with the development of these tests, it's relatively easy. And, in fact, thousands of paternity lawsuits are filed in Spain every year for this reason.
2. Genetic fingerprinting to identify predisposition to diseases
The predisposition to suffer certain diseases This can also be determined through genetic fingerprinting. Once again, this involves taking genetic markers, and if possible, those of ancestors. This provides tests that allow us to determine whether or not there is a predisposition to developing certain diseases.
It should be noted that these tests They don't have a diagnostic function . They can simply check, based on genetic markers, the probability or risk. Then there are other elements that will influence it, such as environmental factors or lifestyle. However, all information that serves precisely to minimize probabilities is positive.
Generally, these tests are done voluntarily because, at the medical level, other modalities are usually chosen. We recommend them if there is any antecedent suspect in the family, both to confirm and to rule out.
3. Identification of criminals
The identification of criminals This is another practical use of genetic fingerprinting. If bodily fluids are present at a crime scene, the sample can be compared with that of the suspects to determine or rule out responsibility. Therefore, for certain types of criminals, a record of their genetic fingerprinting is required.
To reach the identification stage, either a bank has previously established the offender's genetic fingerprint, or an arrest is made, requiring the offender to provide a genetic sample. However, this is a procedural stage after the commission of the crime and, generally, before precautionary measures are taken.
In this case, it should be noted that DNA is decisive evidence with judicial value. In fact, it is considered the most important element in determining the perpetrator of a crime. Therefore, it is conducted at the request of a judicial authority and with all the necessary guarantees for its validity.
4. Forensic purpose
The forensic purpose is closely related to the identification of criminals. In this case, what is sought is a first approximation of the genetic profile, searching for Biological remains at the crime scene . This way, even if the suspect has not been located, his or her genetic information is available.
This type of work is performed by forensic police units. This data is subsequently used to compare the information of defendants and suspects in a criminal case. But, obviously, without this prior forensic work, the formal investigation could not proceed. The strength of genetic evidence makes this step, therefore, essential.
But there is also another possibility: the identification of buried human remains under unclear circumstances. This happens, for example, in wars. Decades later, it's possible to identify the remains by analyzing the DNA from the bones and comparing it with that of relatives. This type of testing can be done through private initiatives or with institutional support.
The possibility of having this information tracked throughout the entire population has occasionally been raised. However, to date, this has been limited to certain types of crimes.
5. Scientific research
Finally, genetic fingerprinting is also used for more in-depth scientific research. Sometimes it's an individual initiative (ancestry testing), but other times it's funded by the state.
For example, if we have a large enough sample, we can know the history of a ethnic group . This can be achieved by taking samples from several generations and comparing them with archaeological human remains. In this sense, it can have value for an individual, but also at a collective level.
Another possibility, used for research purposes, is to use genetic fingerprinting as a species identifier. This would serve, without going any further, to better clarify the evolution of our species since hominids.
In summary…
Genetic fingerprinting provides very useful information, both for private and legal use. Do you want to take a DNA test using your genetic markers with confidence? Genotics You'll find a list of the main options sorted by price, type, and delivery time. Get to know us better!