ES🔬🕵️♂️La genetics has not only revolutionized biology and medicine, but also the world of criminology. Thanks to advances in the study of DNA, investigators can solve crimes, identify suspects and even exonerate innocent people.Let’s see how it works! 🎡
⚡️ What is genetics in criminology?
Genetics in criminology is based on DNA analysis for forensic identification. Each person (except identical twins) has a unique genetic profile, which allows scientists to compare DNA samples with evidence found at crime scenes.
🤔 Question for you: Do you know what the structure of DNA is and why it is so unique to each person?
📝 History and evolution of forensic DNA
The use of DNA in criminology began in the 1980s, when scientist Alec Jeffreys discovered the genetic fingerprinting technique. Since then, this method has helped solve thousands of cases around the world.
🌟 Famous example: The first case solved with DNA was in 1986, when a criminal was caught in the UK using this technology.
🔎 How DNA is used in a criminal investigation
- Evidence collection: samples of blood, saliva, hair or other biological remains are obtained.
- DNA extraction and amplification: Genetic material is obtained and multiplied.
- Comparison with databases: Matching with genetic profiles of suspects or criminal databases.
- Conclusion: It is determined if the DNA matches that of a suspect or if further investigation is required.
💪 Quick challenge: Think of a detective series you like – how do you think they use DNA in their investigations? Write down your answer!
🕵️♂️ Advantages of DNA in criminology
- High accuracy in identifying people.
- Proven innocence: It has helped free many people who were wrongly accused.
- Solving old cases: crimes from several decades ago have been solved thanks to DNA.
❓ Family debate: Do you think everyone should have their DNA in a database to solve crimes faster? Discuss at home!
🚫 Risks and ethical debates
Although DNA has been key in criminology, it also presents some problems:
- Privacy: who should have access to genetic information?
- Miscarriages of justice: DNA can sometimes be contaminated or misinterpreted.
- Genetic discrimination: Some people fear that genetic information will be used against them.
🤔 Question to ponder: If your DNA could be used to solve crimes, but also exposed information about your health, would you feel comfortable sharing it? Think about the pros and cons!
🌟 Current advances in forensic genetics
Today, science continues to advance and improve identification techniques:
- Mitochondrial DNA: Used to identify ancient or badly deteriorated remains.
- DNA phenotyping: Allows predicting a person’s physical appearance from his or her DNA.
- Environmental DNA: Detects small traces of DNA in objects without direct contact.
🌟 Fun fact: The FBI has one of the largest DNA databases in the world – CODIS – it contains millions of genetic profiles!
Explore more
🔗 Evolution of DNA analysis in Crime Scene Investigation
🔗 Analysing forensic evidence | The Laboratory
🎬 Creative projects
Choose one of these projects to delve deeper into the topic:
- Design an infographic about the use of DNA in criminology.
- Write a short story where a detective uses DNA to solve a case.
- Create a video or podcast explaining a famous case solved with DNA.
📚 Your turn
Reflect and answer:
- What surprised you most about genetics in criminology?
- How do you think this technology will evolve in the future?
- Explain in your own words how DNA is used in a forensic investigation!
💛 I hope you enjoyed this lesson! Now you know how genetics helps solve mysteries in real life – see you in the next investigation! 🔍🏰
