DNA

what DNA is though to look like

In the crime lab, DNA is used in solving the cases by linking suspects to the actual crimes. Or DNA can be used to disprove a suspect. Since DNA has been introduced into the crime labs, many death row in mates have been proven innocent based on the new technology. The process shown on the many TV shows out there today are not exactly how it is. The process is lengthy and it takes time, days and weeks to actually solve the cases as compared to just a day maybe two as on TV. First, a suitable strained of DNA has to be found and that means combing through all the evidence, one piece at a time. Once the DNA is extracted from what it is on, the exact amount is measured. At least one or two nanograms are needed for the process to work. Feeding the material into a molecular copying machine that labels the DNA while copying it, everything is then fed into the genetic analyzer. Results should then come, but they are not a 100% guarantee. Sunlight, heat, humidity, and age can all affect the results and damage the DNA. DNA can be good for years in a properly refrigerated storage locker, but just a few days outside would destroy any and all possible evidence.

In years to come, the technology will be there to restore DNA and things like that. There will soon not be any such thing as corrupt DNA or data that the computers and instruments in the crime lab won't be able to break down and rebuild so that it can be read. It would also be done legally, at least after a while, so that it could be used in court as evidence as reconstructed data but still good data, not manipulated data. The field will soon have all that and more.

Wood, Lamont. "DNA Crime Lab Analysis: TV vs. Reality." 3 March 2008 LiveScience. 5 May 2008 http://www.livescience.com/technology/080303-real-dna.html