What is the use of electrophoresis in forensic science?
What electrophoresis does is to help molecules that are charged run from one area to another depending on size. We use that to analyze DNA fragments. Each individual will have a unique DNA pattern (due to polymorphic DNA) and thereby if we isolate DNA from different individuals and run them on a gel with a charge (which is exactly what electrophoresis is) … they will run at different patterns. So the heaviest DNA fragments will run slow and the small ones fast. DNA is negatively charged so u can give it a charge and run them towards the positive end while separating the DNA according to size. So if we find DNA at the crime scene and we have 3 suspects, we can isolate DNA from the suspects and from the crime scene and then run all 4 samples on a gel … and if the crime scene DNA pattern is similar to one of the suspects then we know he was there and probably commited the crime. Here’s a picture of a gel with DNA run in it
