DNA Database the Advantages of

DNA Database The advantages of DNA profiling and databases DNA profile refers to unique identifying characteristics of an individual. In brief, because a persons DNA contains elements that are totally unique to that individual, this means that developing a DNA database of individuals can be a very effective way of establishing identity in a criminal case, or of finding out the identity of a missing person. The science of DNA profiling has many applications.

The most common usage of this technology is to rapidly identify the criminal perpetrator in a crime. An article from the University of Utah states: "DNA profiling has helped to acquit or convict suspects in many of the most violent crimes, including rape and murder." (Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) DNA profiling can be equally effective in preventing innocent person for being wrongly convicted of crimes.

In simple terms, DNA refers to the "...genetic material that programs how cells work." (Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) In more scientific terms, DNA refers to Deoxyribonucleic acid, which "provides the vital information for genetic inheritance by forming an immense sequence of codes made up from four very simple base units. " (DNA Profiling 2) Every cell in the body contains this genetic material which is responsible of the functioning of that cell.

In reality we all share a common DNA profiles and in fact 99.9% of the DNA in the human body is the same for every human individual. This is due to the fact that most of the DNA in humans is there to establish species-specific traits; for example to distinguish skin from scales etc. (Baden M.) However, the remaining percentage of DNA is unique to that human individual. It is this small amount that is the focus in DNA profiling.

While this amount may not seem to be very large, in fact the 0.1% of unique DNA in each individual amounts to 3 million base pairs. This is more than is needed to make extremely accurate identifications of individuals. These fragments of DNA are termed polymorphic because they vary in shape from person to person. "Essentially, DNA profiling is the process of separating an individual's unique, polymorphic, fragments from the common ones.

" (Baden M.) One of the factors that add to the advantage of DNA profiling in the solving of criminal cases is that DNA evidence is usually widespread and easy to obtain in any crime scene. "It is present in all kinds of evidence collected at the scene, including blood, hair, skin, saliva and semen.

Scientists can analyze the DNA in evidence samples to see if it matches a suspect's DNA." (Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) The technology associated with DNA profiling can make use of minute particles of matter in the identification of individuals, such as the saliva from a cigarette butt. Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) This is particularly significant in solving crimes where the evidence on the scene has been corrupted or disturbed. Of course DNA profiling is only part of the larger criminal investigative process.

However, when it is used correctly and scientifically it can in many instances be used in the process of eliminating potential suspects. This in turn results in faster convictions and increases the probably of apprehending the culprit in a crime. It can also".. provide compelling evidence to support a conviction and, most importantly, reduce the chances of a wrongful conviction." (Can DNA Demand a Verdict?) The above reasons are indicative of the usefulness and importance of compiling a DNA database from various profiles.

Proof of the effectiveness of DNA databases can be seen in the fact that that the International Criminal Police Organization or Interpol uses DNA profiling and has established a DNA database in conjunction with other countries. The creation of the Interpol DNA Unit is intended to provide "...strategic and technical support to enhance member states' DNA profiling capacity and promote widespread use in the international law enforcement environment." (DNA Profiling) This database provides a model for other DNA Databases.

The central advantage of databases like these is the storing of DNA profiles and the ability to retrieve DNA information across borders, which will increase the ability to solve crimes. There are also many other reason why DNA profiling and the maintenance of DNA databases can be useful. These include the following aspects, among others. Their DNA profiles can be kept on file to help with determining family relationships, should they pass away and parties make legal claims on their estate.

Children's DNA profiles may be useful for identification should something happen to them in the future, such as abductions or runaways. Individuals in high-risk situations, such as men in combat, have their DNA profiles kept on record in case identification of their remains becomes necessary. A DNA test could be conducted on these remains to see if they match the DNA profile on record. DNA Profiling: Paternity-Answers) In addition to the above advantages of DNA databases is the fact that this technology is being constantly improved and there are.