Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students should be able to:
1. describe the concept and practical applications of DNA fingerprinting;
2. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles behind DNA fingerprinting methodologies currently in use, including but not limited to VNTR, STR, PCR, SNPs, RFLP, Y- STR and mitochondrial DNA (mDNA) analysis;
3. describe the genetic techniques currently used for forensic human identification purposes;
4. describe and source data from DNA databases; and,
5. demonstrate an understanding of how DNA fingerprinting results can be used in the Nigerian legal system.
Course Contents
DNA fingerprinting: definition, importance in Forensic Science. Collection and types of evidences for DNA fingerprinting. Genetic basis of DNA Fingerprinting. Chromosomes, DNA, Nuclear DNA and Mitochondrial DNA. Techniques of DNA fingerprinting; Isolation, performing southern blots, making radioactive probe, Hybridization reaction, visualization, VNTR, HLA-DQα, STRs, RFLP. Types of DNA fingerprinting: Single locus DNA and multi–locus DNA fingerprinting. Mini satellite, micro-satellite, FTA cards for isolation of DNA. Polymerase chain reaction: instrumentation, principle, significance in forensic case samples. Denaturation, annealing and extension. Detection of PCR products. Practical application of DNA fingerprinting: Paternity and maternity testing,
personal identification, criminal identification etc.. DNA databank; limitations of DNA fingerprinting; legality of DNA fingerprinting in Nigeria.
