1
Q
What are the uses of DNA profiling?
A
- Forensics
- Diagnosing inherited disorders
- Identifying casualties
- Paternity testing
- Fight illegal trading
2
Q
How is DNA profiling useful in forensics?
A
- each individual has their own unique genetic sequence
- DNA can provide a means of identification accurate enough to be used in the courtroom
- traces of DNA left at a crime scene can often prove to be crucial evidence
3
Q
How is DNA profiling useful in diagnosing inherited disorders?
A
- provides medical professionals with information needed to determine hereditary diseases
- enables parents to make decisions concerning affecting pregnancies
- gives them a chance to prepare for proper treatment of an affected child
4
Q
How is DNA profiling useful in identifying casualties?
A
- if the army kept a set of DNA fingerprints of all soldiers
- they could be used to identify unrecognisable casualties
5
Q
How is DNA profiling useful in paternity testing?
A
- DNA fingerprinting in the court system is useful to establish paternity in custody/child support disputes
- determine parents if babies have been switched in a maternity home
6
Q
How is DNA profiling useful in fighting illegal trading?
A
- origin of timber etc may be identified to fight illegal trading
7
Q
What are the disadvantages of DNA profiling?
A
- Violation of privacy
- Issues with accuracy
- Manipulation
8
Q
What is the problem with DNA profiling in terms of violation of privacy?
A
- many people believe the use of DNA profiling to store identifiable information about people is a violation of privacy
- information regarding genetic traits could lead to health insurers denying coverage or claims
9
Q
What is the problem with DNA profiling in terms of issues with accuracy?
A
- the accuracy and efficiency of DNA fingerprinting depends on the competency of equipment, laboratory personnel and experience
- possible errors in the procedures inside the laboratory can lead to incorrect information
10
Q
What is the problem with DNA profiling in terms of manipulation?
A
- tampering, irresponsible handling and manipulation of data in genetic profiling
- could lead to false information
