The chances of a DNA mismatch occurring in DNA fingerprinting is one in a billion. Here learners see how using the differences in people's DNA, specifically Short Tandem Repeats (STRs), cutting them out using restriction enzymes, and then amplifying and separating them using gel electrophoresis produces DNA fingerprints. A bogus murder case shows how this can help in paternity and forensic cases.

Concepts

dna fingerprinting, gel electrophoresis, genes, forensics, dna

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Follow up with a forensics electrophoresis lab in class

Classroom Considerations

• Assumes learners have some understanding of DNA, genes, and their structures
• Video best fits in a higher level biology class
• This is the 15th video in a series of 21

Pros

• Utilizes high-quality images and diagrams to help learners understand DNA fingerprinting
• Video simplifies a complex process so viewers better understand the material

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.11-12.8