Book contents
- Understanding Forensic DNA
- Understanding Life
- Understanding Forensic DNA
- Copyright page
- Reviews
- Dedication
- Contents
- Foreword
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- 1 Biological Identification
- 2 Before DNA
- 3 First-Generation Forensic DNA
- 4 STR Methods and Loci
- 5 DNA Analysis and Interpretation: Single-Source Samples and Simple Mixtures
- 6 The Curse of Sensitivity
- 7 From Mothers and Fathers
- 8 Emerging Technologies
- 9 Emerging Issues
- Concluding Remarks
- Summary of Common Misunderstandings
- References and Further Reading
- Figure Credits
- Index
3 - First-Generation Forensic DNA
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 September 2022
- Understanding Forensic DNA
- Understanding Life
- Understanding Forensic DNA
- Copyright page
- Reviews
- Dedication
- Contents
- Foreword
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- 1 Biological Identification
- 2 Before DNA
- 3 First-Generation Forensic DNA
- 4 STR Methods and Loci
- 5 DNA Analysis and Interpretation: Single-Source Samples and Simple Mixtures
- 6 The Curse of Sensitivity
- 7 From Mothers and Fathers
- 8 Emerging Technologies
- 9 Emerging Issues
- Concluding Remarks
- Summary of Common Misunderstandings
- References and Further Reading
- Figure Credits
- Index
Summary
The era of forensic DNA typing began in the 1980s when ABO and isoenzymes were the forensic tools for biological identification. As was the case with ABO blood grouping, DNA profiling was adapted from research in molecular biology. However, migration from the research laboratory to the forensic laboratory involves far more than buying new equipment. Forensic methods and techniques must satisfy two diverse communities – the scientific and the judicial. There is a common misconception that science and justice both seek “truth” and are natural partners. This assessment is oversimplified. At best, the disciplines manage to work together in a strained relationship. Before we move on to the science of DNA profiling, we need to explore how DNA found acceptance in the courts.
When a new scientific method is employed in a case, the courts must decide whether the data will be admitted into evidence that will be seen by those who will pass judgment, such as a judge or jury.
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- Information
- Understanding Forensic DNA , pp. 35 - 49Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2022