Q.36 Which of the following molecular genetic technique(s) is/are used in forensic science?
(A) Coimmunoprecipitation
(B) DNA fingerprinting
(C) Restriction fragment length polymorphism
(D) Electrophoretic mobility shift assay
Molecular Genetic Techniques in Forensic Science: MCQ Analysis
DNA fingerprinting stands out as the primary molecular genetic technique used in forensic science for identifying individuals from biological samples. This article breaks down a key multiple-choice question (MCQ) on the topic, highlighting the correct answer and explaining each option.
Correct Answer
The correct options are (B) DNA fingerprinting and (C) Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Both techniques play crucial roles in forensic DNA analysis, with DNA fingerprinting relying on RFLP as a foundational method.
Option Breakdown
(A) Coimmunoprecipitation
Coimmunoprecipitation pulls down protein complexes using antibodies, aiding studies in protein interactions within biochemistry. It finds no direct application in forensic science, which prioritizes DNA-based identification over protein analysis.
(B) DNA Fingerprinting
DNA fingerprinting generates unique profiles from variable DNA regions like VNTRs or STRs, matching crime scene evidence to suspects with high accuracy. Forensic labs use it routinely for criminal investigations, paternity testing, and cold case resolutions.
(C) Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism
RFLP detects DNA variations by digesting samples with restriction enzymes, separating fragments via electrophoresis, and probing specific sequences. It formed the basis of early DNA fingerprinting in forensics before STR methods dominated.
(D) Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay
EMSA assesses protein-DNA binding through gel shifts caused by complex formation, useful in molecular biology for transcription factor studies. Forensic applications do not involve this technique, as it focuses on nucleic acid-protein dynamics rather than individual profiling.
