Use of DNA profiles in a forensic context

Abstract

Molecular biology tools are employed in numerous laboratories to provide objective information to authorities responsible for enforcing legislative texts, as well as to individuals seeking to learn about their origins. National DNA databases have, for example, been operational since 1995 in England, 1998 in Germany and the United States, and 2000 in Switzerland. This report describes the situation encountered in Switzerland in 2005 and provides some insights into the methodology associated with this field of activity.