Question

Which of the following can be used as samples to extract DNA for DNA fingerprinting?

• A. Hair strands
• B. Fingerprints
• C. Blood samples
• D. Footprints

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C)

Blood samples

DNA fingerprinting is a technique used to identify individuals by making use of the unique DNA sequence patterns that exist in their genomes. DNA fingerprinting is usually used to identify the criminal from among the suspects, to identify parents in case of parental dispute. DNA can be extracted from blood samples or hair strands that are found in the place of murder and is compared with DNA profiles of the suspected people to identify the culprit. DNA cannot be extracted from footprints and fingerprints.