Biology in the Laboratory

DNA in the Lab

What types of samples can be used for DNA fingerprinting?

Any body fluid or tissue that contains DNA can be used for DNA fingerprinting, including hair follicles, skin, earwax, bone, urine, feces, semen, or blood. In criminal cases, DNA evidence may also be gathered from dandruff; from saliva on cigarette butts, chewing gum, or envelopes; and from skin cells on eyeglasses.