Unlocking the Past: How DNA Testing Brings Closure to Families
For decades, families have been searching for answers, grasping at remnants of the past hoping for a semblance of closure. Now, thanks to advancements in DNA genetic testing, those answers are becoming increasingly attainable. But have you ever wondered about the intricate process behind these life-changing discoveries?
A Glimpse Inside the Lab: The Science of Solving Mysteries
At academic institutions like the Forensic Science Institute, students are gaining hands-on experience with the cutting-edge technology used in DNA analysis. While the process may seem complex, it’s a surprisingly methodical journey.
Step 1: Measure and Assess
The journey begins with a DNA sample. The first step is to assess its quality and quantity. Think of it as taking inventory – how much DNA is present, and is it degraded or inhibited by any external factors?
“It lets us know how much DNA we have, and lets us know, maybe, if we have degradation because the samples have degraded over time. It also lets us know if we have any inhibition due to dyes, or things like that. Really great tool to let us know how much DNA we have in our samples,” says Rhonda Williams, UCO associate professor with 15 years of forensic DNA field experience.
Step 2: Making Copies
Next, the DNA sample is placed into a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine – a sophisticated piece of equipment that Williams likens to a “fancy color copier.”
“This is our Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine. You push the buttons, and it cranks out exponential copies of DNA for you that we fluorescently label,” Williams explains.
The PCR machine essentially duplicates the DNA sample millions of times, amplifying the genetic material for easier analysis.
Step 3: Visualization and Analysis
Finally, the amplified DNA is introduced into a genetic analyzer. This remarkable machine provides a visual representation of the DNA sample, allowing scientists to compare it against known profiles or databases.
“The great thing about it is it runs within 45 minutes. It can show you your DNA sample. This is the first time we actually get to visualize it,” Williams adds.
This visualization process is crucial, as it provides concrete evidence that can be used to solve crimes, identify missing persons, or even confirm familial relationships.
The Future of DNA Testing: A World of Possibilities
DNA technology is constantly evolving, promising even faster results and greater accuracy. Lesley Perry, OSBI Criminalist Supervisor, highlights the potential of this groundbreaking field.
“I don’t know where we’re gonna be in another two years, but it’s going to get more research and more money invested in it,” Perry said. “It’s going to become something that we can do in house. It’s going to be something that we can do then on more cases. We’ll be able to have more leads generated in ongoing cases rather than these cold cases.”
With increased investment and research, DNA testing could soon become a standard tool for law enforcement, potentially solving even more cold cases and providing much-needed answers to families waiting for justice.
Preserving Evidence: A Vital Step
While technology advances, the importance of carefully handling evidence remains paramount. Perry emphasizes the crucial role of forensic experts in safeguarding evidence for DNA analysis.
“Be really good gatekeepers for that evidence to make sure that you’re sending it off at the right point in time.”
Explain how advancements in DNA technology have contributed to resolving long-standing mysteries and providing closure to families
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## Unlocking the Past: How DNA Tests Bring Closure to Families
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re delving into the fascinating world of forensic science and exploring how DNA testing is revolutionizing our ability to solve mysteries and bring closure to families. Joining us is Dr. Alex Reed, a leading expert in forensic DNA analysis. Dr. Alex Reed, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** For many years, families have been searching for answers about their past, clinging to hope for some resolution. Now, advancements in DNA technology are offering unprecedented possibilities. Can you tell us a little bit about how DNA testing is being used to shed light on these long-standing mysteries?
**Dr. Alex Reed: ** Absolutely. DNA testing has become an invaluable tool in forensic science. It allows us to analyse incredibly small samples – sometimes even degraded or aged – and extract genetic information that can be compared to known profiles or used to identify individuals. This has had a profound impact on criminal investigations, paternity cases, and even historical inquiries. Essentially, DNA acts as a unique identifier, allowing us to connect the dots in ways that were unimaginable just a few decades ago.
**Host:** That’s incredible. So you take a sample, and then what? What are the steps involved in actually analyzing the DNA?
**Dr. Alex Reed:**
It’s a fascinating process. Let me walk you through the basics. First, we assess the quality and quantity of the DNA sample. Think of it like taking inventory – we need to know how much we’re working with and whether the DNA is degraded due to environmental factors.
**Host:** And then?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Next, we use a technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR, to amplify the DNA. This is essentially like making millions of copies of the DNA, which allows us to analyse it more effectively. Imagine it as a sophisticated color copier for genetic material.
**Host:** That’s a great analogy.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** we use specialized techniques to visualize and analyse the amplified DNA. This allows us to identify specific genetic markers that are unique to individuals, just like fingerprints.
**Host:** And that’s how you can potentially link someone to a crime scene or identify remains?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** That’s right.
**Host:** It’s truly remarkable what science can achieve. Dr. Alex Reed, thank you so much for sharing your expertise with us today. Do you have any final thoughts for those who might be interested in learning more about this field?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Absolutely. There are many resources available online and through universities that offer programs in forensic science. This is a rapidly evolving field with immense potential to help solve mysteries and bring justice and closure to families.
