Abstract
This chapter describes the extraordinary advances in forensics medicine and molecular paleontology, resulting from the ability to isolate and analyze deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from specimens. The chapter discusses the molecular basis for DNA identification and the biochemistry for its procedure. The theory and procedure for fingerprinting and some controversies surrounding the use of DNA as an identification tool is also discussed. The manner in which DNA matching techniques can be used to decide paternity cases and in identifying deceased individuals is highlighted. DNA analyses can assist microbial identifications and provide an understanding of a disease's pathology. Details of the situations under which DNA can be isolated from fossilized remains are highlighted. The ongoing studies on mitochondrial DNA using which scientists hypothesize the identity of the first humans are reviewed. The chapter goes on to discuss the basis for disconnecting Neanderthals from the lineage of modern humans and reviews the evidence for the identity of the first Americans. The chapter concludes by explaining that DNA analysis opens a window on the characteristics of early humans and helps to resolve modern problems.
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