Answer :
DNA methylation is the addition of a methyl group to DNA, used in forensic science to identify body fluids and distinguish between individuals, including identical twins. This process provides valuable investigatory insights and preserves evidence effectively.
DNA methylation is a biological process involving the addition of a methyl group to the cytosine base of DNA. This modification can silence genes and is heritable without altering the original DNA sequence.
In forensic science, DNA methylation has significant applications, particularly in the identification of body fluids and tissues.
By examining the differential methylation patterns between various tissues and even among identical twins, forensic experts can gather crucial evidence.
For example, specific methylation profiles can help distinguish between blood, saliva, and other body fluids at a crime scene, thus providing insights into the events that occurred.
The benefits of DNA methylation in forensic investigations include:
Identification of body fluids: Different body fluids exhibit distinct methylation patterns, enabling precise identification.
Discrimination between individuals: Even identical twins, who have the same DNA sequence, can be differentiated based on their unique epigenetic markers.
Preservation of evidence: Methylation analysis methods are compatible with existing DNA extraction techniques, ensuring that evidence can be preserved and analyzed efficiently.
This capability to determine the type of biological material and associate it with a specific individual greatly enhances the probative value of forensic evidence.
