Annotated Bibliography - DNA Forensics - Jane's AP Bio Webpage https://sites.google.

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Annotated Bibliography - DNA Forensics

(2008, September 16). DNA Forensics. Retrieved September 24, 2008,

from Genomics.energy.gov

Web site: http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genome/elsi/forensics.shtml

This site gives detailed explanations of the principles of DNA forensics. It explains the
methods and how genetic fingerprinting works, while listing examples of cases where DNA
forensics has been or can be successfully used. It explores the effectiveness of genetic
fingerprinting and lists and explains some of the various DNA technologies used in genetic
fingerprinting and in forensic investigations. Also, it analyzes the positive and negative
consequences of DNA forensics while exploring the ethical and moral issues surrounding the
topic.

Amar, Akhil Reed. (June 2001). "A Safe Intrusion." American Lawyer, 23.6, 69-71.

In this article, Mr. Amar discusses the impacts of the emergence of DNA fingerprinting
technology. He explores the arguments that some people have against the practice and refutes
them through the examination of the positive consequences of DNA forensics. However, he also
analyzes the dangers of creating a system where the government can examine the information
of all of its citizens. Instead, he proposes a system where both the privacy of the individual and
the upholding of justice through DNA fingerprinting could be achieved.

Gest, Ted. (October 31, 1988) "Convicted by Their Own Genes." U.S. News &
World Report, 105.n17, 70.

Ted Gest offers the negatives of DNA fingerprinting as a direct rebuttal to the growing
enthusiasm in the subject. He cites matters such as the small but still existent possibility for error,
the quality control procedures, and the danger of loss of privacy among other issues. However,
he acknowledges that the technology will help exonerate innocent suspects and probably will
never be needed for most cases. Instead of seeking a stop to this new technology, he urges
caution in its development and use.

Lerner, K Lee & Lerner, Brenda Wilmoth. (2008). DNA Fingerprinting. Gale Encyclopedia of
Science.

Retrieved September 25, 2008 from Discovering Collection.

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Annotated Bibliography - DNA Forensics - Jane's AP Bio Webpage https://sites.google.com/site/janewang03/DNA-Forensics/annotatedbib

In this entry, Lerner and Lerner discuss the mechanisms behind DNA fingerprinting. They
explain the structure of DNA and how scientists analyze the 5-10% of DNA that varies from
human to human to find the person to who a DNA sample belongs. They explain that although
the scientific knowledge behind the process is sound, it is still a controversial topic in courtrooms
for various reasons. They then explore many historical instances when the use of DNA forensics
has helped solve cases and find solutions to problems.

U.S. Department of Justice. (March 2003). Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology.
(Accession

No. 020080) Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.

This government report examines many of the benefits of the use of DNA technology
including DNA fingerprinting. Through the use of explanation and examples, the article shows
how DNA technology could be used to solve many types of crimes. Not only that, DNA could be
used to protect the innocent and exonerate those who are falsely accused for crimes that they
did not commit. Finally, it explains about the FBI’s Missing Persons DNA Database Program and
shows how DNA technology can aid in the location and return of missing people.

(2008). Genetic Fingerprinting. Retrieved September 25, 2008 from Bio-Medicine.

Website: http://www.bio-medicine.org/biology-definition/Genetic_fingerprinting/

This site explains the process and biology behind DNA fingerprinting. It explains what is
needed to make a DNA fingerprint, its applications, and its legality. It explains how scientists
manage to extract and test DNA and the various methods used. The possible effects when using
this science as well as its effects on the court and justice systems are also considered. Finally,
the article remarks on the possible existence of fake DNA on crime scenes and the history of
various court cases where DNA fingerprinting was used.

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