The IT Law Wiki
The IT Law Wiki

Definitions[]

Interpol[]

A DNA profile is

[a] set of DNA identification characteristics at numerous specific DNA locations (loci) that can be used to distinguish one person from that of another person.[1]

United Kingdom[]

A DNA profile is "any information derived from a DNA sample."[2]

United States[]

A DNA profile (also referred to as DNA type) is

[t]he results of DNA analysis, which determines the relative positions of DNA sequences at several locations on the molecule. The digital representation of a nuclear DNA profile is used for automated biometric comparison. [3]

Overview[]

"DNA profiling first achieved public recognition in 1987 when it was used in a high-profile case where DNA evidence led to the successful conviction of a dangerous sex offender and the exclusion of an innocent suspect. The continual emerging strength of DNA profiling is its ability to allow a large number of samples to be compared with a high degree of reliability. The profiling techniques being developed fit more closely with standard specifications and are more applicable to the routine analysis of crime scene samples, often obtained from high-volume crime."[4]

References[]