By using RFLP technology (restriction fragment length polymorphism), DNA fingerprints can be generated. Any individual organism can be uniquely identified by its DNA fingerprint.
Since each living creature is unique, each has a unique DNA recipe. Individuals within any given species, breed, or hybrid line can usually be identified by minor differences in their DNA sequences - as few as one difference in a million letters can be detected! Using the techniques of DNA fingerprinting and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) scientists can diagnose viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, distinguish between closely related individuals, or map the locations of specific genes along the vast length of the DNA molecules in the cells.
Identifying Organisms
By using RFLP technology (restriction fragment length polymorphism), DNA fingerprints can be generated. Any individual organism can be uniquely identified by its DNA fingerprint. Consequently, this fingerprint can be used to determine family relationships in paternity litigation, match organ donors with recipients in transplant programs, connect suspects with DNA evidence left at the scene of a crime (in the form of hair or body fluids), or serve as a pedigree for seed or livestock breeds. (See Fig. 4.)
Identifying Genes
One important aspect of genetic engineering projects is to identify the DNA gene that controls a particular trait. In the same way that a visitor might use the state, city, street, and house number to locate a friends house, genetic engineers use genetic "maps" to locate genes. The genetic maps are generated by statistical analyses, PCR, RFLP, and DNA sequencing. Maps are being developed for humans, mice, swine, cattle, corn, wheat, and other plants or animals with commercial or research importance.
Diagnosing Infectious Diseases and Genetic Disorders
Diagnosis of infectious diseases is a profound application of the new DNA technology. Tuberculosis, AIDS, papillomavirus, and many other infectious diseases, in addition to the inherited disorders like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia, are diagnosed within hours by the PCR technique rather than days or weeks by traditional methods. The greatly increased sensitivity and speed of the PCR technique, as compared with traditional methods, allows earlier intervention and treatment. PCR assays will soon be available to diagnose diseases of crops and livestock.
According to biotech iastat