Forensics For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 15

Looking Deep Inside: DNA Analysis

IN THIS CHAPTER

Describing what DNA is and how it works

Understanding the uniqueness of an individual’s DNA

Using DNA to identify victims and perpetrators

Looking at paternity and ancestry

The same stuff that makes your eyes green or your hair curly can pinpoint you as the perpetrator of a crime. DNA determines much of who you are (perhaps even whether you’re predisposed to commit a crime, according to some), and it’s a hot topic in forensic circles. Knowledge of exactly what DNA is and does has been around for a long time, as its chemical makeup and structure have been clearly defined for more than a half century. Its use as a forensic tool is now three decades old.

Opening an Instruction Manual for Your Cells

Your body is made up of approximately 60 trillion cells. Certain cells enable you to see, hear, and feel. Other cells make insulin, sugar, and enzymes to digest your food. Your heart muscle cells pump your blood through your lungs where your red blood cells pick up oxygen and then deliver this precious cargo to all the cells ...