**3.1. Samples**

the rifling can be compared with fingerprints left on the weapon and with the rifling of other

Medico‐legal identification is based on intrinsic scientific methods or scientific methods absorbed from other sciences, usually bio‐medical sciences. Scientific progress from the last 30–40 years has highlighted and continues to highlight the role of the specialists in identifica‐ tion. Their role proves its importance in cases that have to do with civil and criminal law, family law, as well as in cases of catastrophes with numerous victims (natural, accidents, wars,

Together with the discovery by Mullis in 1983 of the polymerized chain reaction (PCR), Sir Alex Jeffreys will introduce in the field of forensic genetics this technique by studying a set of DNA fragments that proved to have unique characteristics, which were nonrecurring and inherent for each individual, the only exception being monozygotic twins. Alec Jeffreys named

In this chapter, we will present the utility of molecular genetics techniques in the case of

In 1880, British anthropologist Sir Francis Galton published the first studies on digital finger‐

Another important step in forensic identification was discovering the protein polymorphism of the AB0 blood groups by the Austrian doctor Landsteiner at the beginning of the twentieth

After year 1950, in the forensic serology, laboratories were tested a number of blood and tissue

Sir Alec Jeffreys introduced for the first time the DNA fingerprinting in the field of forensic genetics, proving that some regions from the DNA contain repetitive sequences which are variable among individuals [1]. He was the first to prove the importance of using genetic fingerprinting in the case of forensic personal identification (crimes, filiation, consanguinity,

Due to this discovery, the first case of forensic genetics could be solved using the DNA analysis [2]. After murdering of two girls in 1983 and 1986, the police organized the blood sample collection from 5000 men living in the area where the murder took place, and finally found the

In 1983, Kary Mullis developed the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique which opened new ways in DNA analysis in the forensic genetics. Thus, from each biological human trace or micro‐trace containing nucleated cells, the DNA is extracted to be subjected to amplification reactions. The method is an enzymatic process by which regions of the DNA are replicated

antigens, culminating with researching the major histocompatibility complex (HLA).

weapons.

88 Forensic Analysis - From Death to Justice

terrorist attacks).

century.

sexual abuse, immigration).

killer by his DNA profile [3].

these reaction products "genetic fingerprints".

**2. Short history of forensic genetics**

forensic identification, as well as in criminalistics cases.

printing as an identification method of a certain person.

Biological samples consisting of nucleated cells are essential for forensic genetic profiling [6].

Biological samples belonging to this category are as follows:

