1 Presentation Noha

Biotechnology in forensic science
By
NOHA BALLAWNEH
Super vised by:
D.ABDALLAH.ALFAWWAZ
April 2024
Out line
-Introduction
-Meaning of Forensic Biotechnology
-BEGINNING OF THE REVOLUTION
-What is DNA Profiling?
-Using technology
-advantage and disadvantages
Introduction
Biotechnology plays a crucial role in forensics, especially in DNA
analysis for identification and crime-solving.
It's amazing how genes can be used to gather evidence and solve
crimes.
There are various techniques used in forensic gene therapy, such as
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and DNA sequencing.
These techniques help scientists extract and analyse DNA samples
from crime scenes or individuals to establish connections and identify
suspects.
Meaning of Forensic
Biotechnology:
• Forensic science is a vital instrument for the detection or
investigation of crime and the administration of justice by
providing crucial information about the evidence found at the
crime scene.
Forensic analysis of biological evidence using biotechnology
methods is increasingly important in criminal investigations.
Analysis of proteins in blood (serology), other body fluids and
body tissues are some of the traditional methods in forensic
analysis.
THE BEGINNING OF THE
REVOLUTION
- The technique was first described in 1985 by Dr. Alec Jeffreys, a
geneticist in the University of Leicester.
He discovered that certain regions of human DNA contained
sequences that repeated over and over contiguously, and that the
number of such repeats differed from individual to individual.
This really triggered the era of forensic biotechnology, which has

since moved at an amazing pace, and continues to do so, impacting
virtually every area of forensic investigation of serious crimes such as
homicide, rape, and assault
What is DNA Profiling?
A technique used by scientists to distinguish between individuals
of the same species using only samples of their DNA
The unique sequence of bands/bars produced from an individual
is referred to as a DNA profile.
DNA profiling relies on short, repeating sequences of DNA that
are found within the non-coding regions of DNA.
What techniques are used in forensic DNA
typing?
1.Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR is a widely used method for
amplifying specific DNA regions. It allows forensic scientists to create
millions of copies of a particular DNA segment from a small sample.
PCR-based assays are commonly employed for DNA typing.
2. Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis: STR markers are specific DNA
sequences that repeat in tandem. Forensic laboratories use STR
analysis to compare the number of repeats at specific loci between
samples. The resulting STR profiles are unique to individuals, making
them valuable for identifying suspects and linking them to crime
scenes.
• 3. Y Chromosome Markers: These markers are used to specifically
identify the male contributor of a sample. Since the Y chromosome is
inherited only from fathers, Y chromosome markers help determine
male lineage.
4. Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) is a technique in

which organisms may be differentiated by analysis of patterns derived
from cleavage of their DNA.
Applications
- Criminal Investigations: Forensic DNA typing is used to link suspects to
crime scenes, identify victims, and exonerate innocent individuals
• Paternity Testing:
Determining biological parentage.
Another application
• Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains: DNA profiles help identify
missing persons and establish familial relationships.
Mass Disasters: Identifying victims in mass disasters (e.g., plane
crashes, natural disasters).
Ancient DNA Typing: Analysing DNA from historical or ancient remains
Advantages
• 1. High Discrimination Power:Forensic DNA testing analyze specific genetic
markers (usually short tandem repeats or STRs) that exhibit high
variability.This high variability allows for precise discrimination between
individuals, making it a powerful tool for identifying suspects or victims
• 2. Objective Evidence:DNA evidence is objective and scientific.It provides a
strong basis for legal proceedings, as it is less susceptible to bias or
subjective interpretation
• 3. Cold Case Resolution:DNA databases and improved testing methods
have led to the resolution of cold casesOld evidence can be re analyzed,
potentially identifying perpetrators who were previously unknown
4. Exoneration of Innocent Individuals: DNA testing can prove
innocence by excluding a person as the source of a sample. It has led to
the release of wrongfully convicted individuals.
5. Database Comparison: DNA databases allow comparison of crime
scene samples with known profiles. This helps link crimes, identify
serial offenders, and track patterns.
6. Rapid Analysis: Advances in technology have reduced analysis
time.Quick results aid investigations and prevent delays
Disadvantages
1.Sample Limitations: Poor-quality or degraded samples yield unreliable
results. Contaminated samples can lead to false positives or negatives.
2. Privacy Concerns: DNA databases raise privacy issues. Genetic
information can reveal sensitive details about an individual and their
family.
3. Familial Matches: Close relatives may share similar DNA profiles.
A match could implicate an innocent family member
Thank you all

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Biotechnology in forensic science

This really triggered the era of forensic biotechnology, which has

4. Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) is a technique in

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