DNA Finger-Printing: Current Scenario and Future

Abstract

Linearly arranged chemical structure in chromosome is known as DNA. It is a double helix made up of two strands of genetic material spiraled around each other. Each strand has a sequence of bases. There are four types of basis namely adenine, guanine, cytosine and thiamine which are very unique to each individual just like their actual fingerprint. The nitrogen base adenine always binds with thymine and cytosine also always binds with guanine. Thus the DNA profiling unique to each individual is collectively known as DNA fingerprinting. DNA determines individuality or uniqueness of the each human being except in uniovular twins. The chances of complete similarity are one in 30 billion to 300 billion i.e. half the population of world. The technique of DNA fingerprinting was first developed by Dr. Alec Jeffery’s from Britain in 1984. He discovered a minisatellite region close to the human myoglobin gene. He isolated this sequence and used it as a probe to investigate human DNA. He found that the minisatellite probe result was a complex band pattern for each individual. In India, initially it was done at CCMB, Hyderabad by Dr. Lalji Singh. Now there are various centers where DNA fingerprinting is carried out. In Maharashtra it is carried out at Sate Forensic Science Laboratory, Vidya Nagar, Kalina, Mumbai – 400 098 (Phone 022–26670755). Using this technique FBI formally concluded the participation of Mr. Bill Clinton in Monica Lewyninskey case. In India more than 79 cases have been solved by using this technique including important case of Dhanu and Shivarasan alleged assailant of Late Priminister Shr. Rajiv Gandhi, Tandori case, Madhumati murder case etc.