Introduction to STRs and DNA Fingerprinting: Forensic Uses for DNA

Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) are highly variable sequences in the genome, crucial for forensic DNA analysis. This lesson explores how STRs are used to accurately identify individuals in forensic science.

Related resources

• Reading: Exonerations: Part One Background DNA Evidence and STRs
• Introduction to STRs and DNA Fingerprinting Presentation
• Student Handout: Exonerations: Thought Organizer
• Student Activity: Short Tandem Repeats (STR) STR Analysis

Topics

• DNA fingerprinting
• genetic identification
• hypervariable sequences
• short tandem repeats
• DNA profiling
• gel electrophoresis
• DNA evidence
• population genetics
• STR analysis
• forensic science
• DNA identification