How is a DNA Test Performed?
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DNA Background
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DNA testing was first established in 1985 by Sir Alec Jeffreys. It has grown in popularity due to its practical applications in various methods of identification and research. Along with fingerprint testing, DNA testing has evolved through the years by fine-tuning methods and operating systems. Now, DNA testing is the most popular and most accurate tool for research.
Applications
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The applications of DNA are primarily involved in forensic investigations, parentage testing and other research methodologies. From the studies to human dispersion to wildlife observations, its application is so vast it virtually touches every aspect of life on earth. The convenience to search and research given by DNA test results has presented a reliable option on which the humanity can make accurate results and conclusions to their quest for knowledge.
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DNA Testing
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DNA tests observe three major stages. The first stage refers to the act of obtaining DNA samples. It could be a piece of a hair, a dried body fluid on a cloth or any other material, a layer of skin, samples of blood and other forms of body fluids, a mouth swab or any fragment of the body that can be traced back to the person being searched or tested. The second stage refers to the posting of the DNA samples for laboratory tests. This stage involves a number of strictly controlled procedure which include: the extraction of cells from the DNA sample, purification and harvesting of the DNA material carried by the extracted cell, copying of the specific target regions of the DNA sample, the separation of different target regions of the extracted DNA strand, analysis of the results of the DNA tests and repetition of all the above mentioned procedures to confirm final result. The last stage points to the completion of the report of the DNA test results. Based on the test results, the report will present conclusive information that will address the specified purpose of the conducted DNA test.
Purpose of DNA Testing
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DNA testing is focused in identifying the patterns of micro satellites, which reveals the qualities that are unique to a particular organism, animal or human being. Through the analysis done on the fragments of a particular event, the results of DNA tests can accurately determine the detailed stages of a process. In this light, it is extremely helpful in doing forensic work in determining who the criminal is and how he commenced the crime. It has also given light to the dead ends of research, particularly those that were aiming to trace the evolutionary pathways of humans, plants or animals. It even gave answers to people who have long been tracing their bloodline, leading the way to finding long lost siblings, parents and children with regard to inheritance or the passing on of titles.
Limitations
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Just like any other successful research tools, DNA testing has been subject to scientifically legitimate criticisms regarding the possibility of human error and the loopholes on its methods of calculating the probability of identification. To address these issues, DNA testing all over the world observes a protocol that managed to standardize the principles and analytical aspects of DNA testing. In addition, with the advent of more advanced and more accurate laboratory equipment for DNA testing, the possibility of human error has become near-zero.
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