Every Persons Dna Fingerprint On A Database example essay topic

The DNA inside a single cell is two metres in length. Of this two metres, only 3-5% of the genetic material codes for genes or proteins. The remainder of the DNA strand is called the non-coding or "junk" DNA. The DNA fingerprinting process involves the analysis of these non-coding portions of the DNA strand, generally taken from a sample of hair, saliva or semen. This process is often confused with DNA sampling, which is the analysis of the entire DNA genome.

In 1983, Sir Alec Jeffreys, a British geneticist from the University of Leicester, introduced the world to genetic fingerprinting. His approach was based on his study of the Southern Blot, a technique first used by E.M. Southern. The Southern Blot uses DNA fragments previously separated by gel electrophoresis that are then transferred to a nitrocellulose membrane. A specific radioactive genetic probe is then allowed to hybridism to complementary fragments, therefore marking their location. Using several restriction enzymes and hot probes, a single person could be identified at the genetic level. Jeffreys discovery that the "junk" DNA has several repeated sequences specific to each individual that could be "hot probed" advanced this DNA process.

These multiple sequences would then create bands on the Southern Blot, much like the bar code on a shopping product. These bands can then be compared, as each individual is specific and unique in terms of the position and length of sequences. Further developments in this technique took place in 1999 when Dr. Ian Findlay, discovered that by looking at a single location on the DNA, a pattern of just two bands was revealed for each individual. This new technique can also differentiate between several biological sample that have been mixed in a single sample. When testing samples from rape victims, this is very useful as the number of persons involved in the act can be determined from the number of bands. In the future it is expected that DNA fingerprinting will continue to be an even more valuable tool for fighting crime.

DNA fingerprinting mostly used in solving crimes, identifying criminals, identifying biological parents and identifying missing persons. But in the future Australia plans to have every persons DNA fingerprint on a database. Within DNA technology, DNA fingerprinting is one of the techniques that most of the general public has heard of simply because of the potential for it to impinge upon our own lives. And there are many advantages and disadvantages to DNA fingerprinting. For example - Respect for Individual Autonomy Personal freedom and choice are undermined when an individual is forced to supply a sample of bodily material. In order for an employer to request a urine sample for drug testing, written consent must be given by the employee.

When individuals make a voluntary blood donation written consent for the procedure must be given. As implied from the two above mentioned examples, supplying bodily samples should require consent. However as of January 1, 2001, all criminals serving more than five years in New South Wales are required by law to give a hair, saliva or semen sample, without consent, to aid in the creation of the NSW police crime fighting DNA database. In Victoria, legislation allows up to four police officers to hold down a prisoner while they forcibly swab for cheek cells. Regardless of society's value of criminals, this is an invasion of personal freedom. - Discrimination Also some have suspected that DNA fingerprinting will lead to a "genetic under class" which would be considered unemployable.

Just as race and skin colour can be discriminated against, as people cannot change these characteristics, so a genome could be used as a source of discrimination. -Cost Another disadvantage of DNA fingerprinting is the cost. It cost $13 000 for police officers to collect and analyse 100 DNA samples during a hunt for a rapist in NSW. This amount of money is rarely available for solving crimes.

Equity / Justice On the up side police and forensic scientists are hailing DNA fingerprinting as the tool that will revolutionise crime solving, much like the ink fingerprint did a century ago. Prevention of criminal activity and safety for the general public is one of the main arguments for DNA fingerprinting. With DNA fingerprinting then perhaps those thinking of committing crimes would think twice as the chance of getting caught is very high. Solving crimes is one of the best ways to protect the community, as offenders are taken off the streets and are unable to commit any more crimes. And with DNA fingerprinting the chance of solving crimes is much higher. DNA fingerprinting will continue to be a hot debate because of it's potential to invade the private lives of innocent citizens.

If DNA fingerprinting is the wrong hands it uses could be violated and innocent people violated that a worthwhile thing, but in the right hand it is very effective. Healey, J (2001) Genetics: Issues in Society. The Spinney Press Sydney web web web.