What is the purpose of DNA fingerprinting?

DNA fingerprinting serves primarily to determine the identity of individuals through their unique genetic makeup, making it particularly useful in forensic applications. This technique analyzes specific regions of DNA that vary greatly among individuals, allowing for the comparison and identification of genetic profiles. In forensic science, DNA fingerprinting can link a suspect to a crime scene, identify victims, or exonerate innocent individuals by showing that their DNA does not match that found at a crime scene.

While identifying genetic mutations, analyzing physical characteristics, and mapping genetic traits are important areas of genetic study, they do not encompass the primary objective of DNA fingerprinting, which is centered on individual identification. Consequently, the ability of this technique to provide conclusive evidence in criminal investigations and paternity cases underscores its critical role in legal and personal identification contexts.