From the field of genomics, which can help identify rare illnesses or develop medicines to treat cancer and Alzheimer's disease, to ancestry databases that can reveal genetic heritage and family relationships, DNA research can uncover hidden truths. DNA analysis can determine a baby's father, track down a hard-to-find criminal suspect, and even find out which neighbor isn't cleaning up after their dog. From its origins in the 1980s, DNA profiling has led to the capture and conviction of thousands of criminals. Misunderstanding of DNA technology has also led to the wrongful convictions of a number of people for crimes they didn't commit. Whether it is being used to identify a killer, reconstruct the face of an unknown victim, or prove that someone is innocent, DNA profiling is a fascinating field using ever-evolving technology.
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