DNA fingerprinting using PCR: a practical forensic science activity

Abstract

This paper discribes a forensic science simulation programme applicable for use in colleges. Students were asked to find a putative suspect by DNA fingerprinting using a simple protocol developed in this study. DNA samples were obtained from a hair root and a drop of blood common sources of DNA in forensic science. The DNA fingerprinting protocol uses PCR to amplify Variable Number of Tandem Repeat (VNTR) sequences with five set of primers. Although there was some variation in the quality of DNA fingerprinting results among students, the students generally carried out the program successfully by correctly identifying the suspect. The inquiry-based problem solving approach of this programme facilitates an understanding of the basic concepts of biotecnology and its application.