Genes
A strand of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) may contain many genes. Genes are like instructions, which our body needs to know how to form and how to operate. We have an estimated number in the region of 25,000 genes in our body, and they are used for many different functions.
One example of the role of our genes is Haemoglobin (red blood cells). The role of Haemoglobin is to capture and carry oxygen around our body - and it is instructed to do so by our genes. If there are any genetic mutations, then these cells are not instructed to work properly, and this can result in conditions such as anaemia. Proteins in Genes that create enzymes are responsible for inherited traits such as eye colour and hair colour. These genetic traits are passed through our genes from generation to generation.
DNA profiling, or genetic profiling, uses the collection of DNA or genes to prove relations between two people. This is particularity useful in cases of paternity testing. DNA cells, (made up of our genes) are collected from either samples of blood, Buccal swabs (inside mouth cheek cells), semen, hair or saliva. This information can then be genetically coded, compared and matched to prove parentage.
Genetic testing and DNA tests are possible because every person inherits two copies of each gene, one from their mother and one from their father. Although humans share the same genes, less than one percent of the estimated 25,000 genes we have are used to make up specific features in individuals, and can be used if required for genetic identification.
