🚀 go-pugleaf

THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 1992 - AMOS EATON 214 - 4:00 P.M.  
REFRESHMENTS 3:30 P.M.

                    Lorraine Flaherty
                  Molecular Genetics Program
            Wadsworth Center for Laboratories and Research
                    Albany, New York 

                    DNA FINGERPRINTING

Recent advances in molecular biology have revolutionized the potential
forensic applications of DNA, the basic genetic material contained in
every cell in the human body.  Rather than using literal fingerprints
to extablish identity, DNA can be used to identify a criminal--or
clear an innocent suspect--based on a few drops of blood or semen, or
roots of hair.

The forensic utilization of DNA analysis technology requires that
biochemical procedures originally developed for genetic research,
clinical diagnosis and paternity studies be applied to criminal
evidence.  The transfer of a technology developed in a research
laboratory to a forensic setting can be a complicated and
time-consuming process.  There are many hurdles that must be overcome,
and many questions that must be answered.  The power of this
technology makes abuse a serious concern.  Recently, several reports
have been issued by prestigious organizations concerning the limits of
the technique and recommendations for implementation.


The scientific,legal and political questions concerning forensic DNA will
be discussed.





Distribution: ny
Organization: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Computer Science, Troy NY
Keywords: