Molecular medicine: a primer for clinicians--Part VIII: Forensic DNA testing

Forensic DNA analysis or "DNA fingerprinting" represents a specific application of DNA testing methods. Previously, we have discussed DNA testing to determine carrier status or to provide confirmatory or presymptomatic diagnosis. Forensic DNA testing seeks to determine the identity of an individual to the exclusion of all others. The most common application of forensic DNA testing is in criminalistics and establishing parentage. In this paper we discuss the application of molecular biology methods to the analysis of DNA for forensic purposes. We also consider some of the controversial issues that surround such uses of DNA testing.