Biology Question

Overview

1. Why is a DNA profile considered “useless” without another sample for comparison purposes? (2 points)
2. Why are Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and linkage equilibrium important in forensic genetics? (2 points)
3. Would there be advantages to direct PCR testing without DNA extraction? Could you give an example of an evidence to apply this method? Justify your answer. (5 points)
4. Among the methodologies for DNA extraction, what method would you choose to extract DNA from: a) bone; b) hair with root? Justify your answers. Which methodologies for DNA extraction would you use if you receive a reference sample on FTA paper vs. if you receive it on a swab? Justify your answers. Would you need to quantify the DNA from the reference sample? (10 points)
5. Why is qPCR a preferred technique over slot blot methods? Which qPCR would you use if you suspect the evidence came from a sexual assault case? (3 points)
6. What is the optimal quantity of DNA for most commercial STR kits? What is the effect of too much or too little DNA being amplified? (3 points)