DNA Fingerprinting and Genetic Disease

dna fingerprinting thumbprint
DNA genetic fingerprinting is an identifying method popularly used in forensics, medicine and paternity testing. With the latest advances in DNA testing accuracy, experts can pinpoint the "uniqueness" of an individual's makeup.

Understanding Genetic Fingerprinting

How does genetic fingerprinting work? Every individual has a particular DNA structure, which is as unique as an actual fingerprint. These genetic markers contain links to ancestral heritage and can reflect characteristics that children inherit from their parents. This genetic "fingerprint" can also provide a predictive marker with risk evaluators for certain diseases and conditions.
 
Genetic testing produces very specific results, which explains its widespread use in forensics and paternity testing. A small culture from hair, blood or other tissue provides enough DNA material for accuracy. Under lab conditions, an enzyme pairing "cuts" the DNA, which is sequenced and then added to a gel-like substance. From here, the pieces receive either colored or radioactive probes. The pattern produced is the DNA fingerprint.

DNA Testing to Diagnose Genetic Disease

Mutations in the DNA can reveal hereditary disorders and a predisposition to some diseases. If particular diseases run in a family, it can help determine if individuals or their unborn children are at risk. Many disease markers are detectable by testing, including:
  • Crohn's disease
  • diabetes
  • multiple sclerosis.
  • rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, the potential for developing high blood pressure and many types of cancers are assessable:

  • The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes refer to "breast cancer" genes, and variants provide a reliable mapping for breast and ovarian cancers.
  • Abnormal findings in the MLH1 and MSH2 genes are possible indicators for developing a range of cancers from the kidneys to the stomach.
  • Mutated APC genes appear to have links to overgrowth of colon polyps.

DNA Fingerprinting: Genetic Connection to Breast Cancer

Family Planning, Children and DNA Testing

When planning a family, DNA fingerprinting can help determine if prospective parents carry genetic diseases which could be passed on to their children. Genetic counseling should include family history and ethnic background to determine possible genetic risks.
 
The decision to test is always a tough one. Even in the face of high risks, no guarantee exists that any of these diseases will actually develop. Further, it is impossible to predict the level of severity, or disability the disease will cause, should it occur.
 
Testing in children is restricted to very specific issues. Professionals avoid testing children for diseases that may only occur later in life.

DNA Testing Accuracy and Limitations

Accuracy of DNA hereditary continues to improve as new knowledge and procedures emerge. Duplicate testing on a single sample increases the percentages of on-target results.
 
It is not currently possible to detect markers for all known diseases. Some genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis are extremely difficult to diagnose genetically because of the numerous mutations involved.

Pros and Cons of Genetic Fingerprinting

The pros and cons of genetic fingerprinting provide inspiration for many heated debates. Some of the advantages of genetic fingerprinting include:
  • ability to forestall or prevent disease through medical intervention and lifestyle changes
  • encouraging at-risk individuals to begin disease screenings at an earlier age
  • giving individuals time to prepare emotionally, physically and financially for possible illness.

Here are some possible drawbacks of genetic fingerprinting:

  • accuracy of tests are dependant on experience and competency of lab personnel
  • emotional turmoil.
  • privacy concerns.
Individuals undergoing testing should be prepared emotionally and understand the full process. Counseling is a widely recommended first step.

DNA Fingerprinting and Privacy

Privacy is an important issue surrounding DNA fingerprinting and genetic disease. Currently, federal laws stipulate non-discrimination for group policyholders through insurance companies. In the workplace and even in schools, access to reports could have serious repercussions.
 
Resources
 
Genetics Home Reference. (2008). Genetic testing. Retrieved August 26, 2008, from the Genetics Home Reference Web site: http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/handbook/testing?show=all.
 
Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory. (n.d.). What is genetic testing? Retrieved August 26, 2008, from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's
ELSI Project Web site: http://www.lbl.gov/Education/ELSI/genetic-testing.html.
 
Mayoclinic.com. (2008). Genetic testing: Weigh benefits & risks. Retrieved August 26, 2008, from the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Web site: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/genetic-testing/FL00076.