Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Is DNA extraction used in forensics to identify a criminal? If so, what process is used to extract it, and what tests does the extracted DNA go through?

Hi,

Welcome to Science Buddies!

A DNA sample from an individual can be used to confirm identity if a reference sample from the same person is available to analyze at the same time. Here is a website that describes the general procedure:

http://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/dna/how.html

The procedure for DNA extracting involves breaking the cell membrane to release the DNA from the cells. Here are 3 projects from this website using either common household items, or a DNA extraction kit available from Amazon.

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... extraction

The analysis of the DNA does require electrophoresis equipment. Do you have access to a lab with this type of equipment? Do you have an research question that you are working on, or do you need additional information? Please let us know.

Donna