The Sticky Ends Justify The Means; The Strategic Use of Restriction Enzymes In DNA Fingerprinting

A) DNA fingerprinting has revolutionized how crimes are solved, and has also aided in other applications. Since described in 1985, Restriction Fragment Polymorphism (RFLP) has acted as the factotum for DNA fingerprinting/profiling, and currently Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is in use. The Restriction Enzymes are vital to the functionality of DNA fingerprinting. Restriction Enzymes are obtained from E-Coli, and the enzymes act as a natural defense against viruses. Restriction Enzymes work by cutting DNA at palindromes. To compare the desired strands of DNA, it is ran on a gel. The DNA differences are the fragments of different lengths. Running DNA on a gel produces different results, because gel electrophoresis is the use of electricity on a gel, giving it both a positive and a negative end. DNA has a slightly negative charge, so the fragments run to red. In the case of DNA, the smaller fragments go farther and the larger fragments remain closer to the original well.

B) The purpose of this experiment is to match DNA from a crime scene. During the experiment, our lab table will be attempting to match the DNA of the suspects with the DNA found at the crime scene. We hope to analyze the DNA correctly and receive experience in the field of crime solving.

C) The use of Restriction Enzymes in this experiment is vital. To analyze the various sample of DNA, and to successfully determine the culprit we will be using six samples of DNA: one from the crime scene, and five other tubes which contain DNA samples from suspects 1-5. We will be pipetting the restriction enzymes into the different tubes. We will then make a gel  (add correct ingredients, and mix it) and run the various samples with a dye to make the fragments visible on the gel. The smaller fragments will move farther, and the success of the lab will depend on the similarities between the crime scene DNA and the DNA from one of the five sample tubes. The Variables of this experiment will be the five DNA samples, and the control will be the DNA from the crime scene. We will attempt to visually compare and identify the controls with the variables to figure out which variable most matches the control.

D) The hypothesis cannot be produced at this time, because I have no knowledge of the suspects or the crime. However, I do predict success for my lab group and I as we use DNA fingerprinting in our special CSI lab.