What is the main purpose of DNA profiling?

• A. To compare patterns of DNA between individuals for identification
• B. To repair damaged DNA
• C. To copy DNA within a cell
• D. To edit genes in germ line

Answer: (A)

DNA profiling is used to identify individuals by comparing patterns of DNA between samples. By examining highly variable regions in the genome, each person has a unique pattern (except identical twins), so when two samples share the same pattern across multiple loci, it provides strong evidence they come from the same person. This technique is why it’s used in forensics to link a suspect to evidence or in paternity testing, not to repair DNA, copy DNA for cell division, or edit genes. The other processes—repairing damaged DNA, duplicating DNA during cell division, or altering the genetic code in germ cells—are separate functions and not what DNA profiling does.