A Guide To Using DNA Databases

DNA samples of all types are stored in various databases around the world. Depending on what region of the world you live in, these databases are organized in various ways.

We will use the United States as an example of the basic structure of a well structured DNA database.

At the national level, there is the NDIS. This stand for the National DNA Index System. This is the largest database of DNA records there is. Every single time a piece of DNA evidence is collected from the justice system, it ends up on the NDIS. The NDIS holds an enormous amount of data that is always being utilized by every law enforcement office that has the capabilities to access it. In very small areas, they might not have immediate access and will have to send in samples to larger facilities and wait for results. As technology is becoming more widespread throughout rural areas, this is becoming less and less of an issue.

A good example of the NDIS in action is by using a crime example. If a burglar breaks into houses on a regular basis, there is a chance he might leave behind hair or maybe blood if he cut himself on a window or get bitten by an animal. If they leave this evidence once, it will work its way into the NDIS. Let's say that same burglar commits a few more burglaries and gets away with them. Later on, that burglar gets caught in the act. A simple DNA test will match him with the older crime scene DNA that was recovered long ago. That burglar can now be charged with every single burglary that happens to have his DNA at the scene. This could be the difference between 1 year and 20 years of prison in the legal system. Thanks to the NDIS, the burglar just got his charges multiplied many times over.

The DNA database starts at the local level and is known as the LDIS or Local DNA Index System. This isn't in place everywhere quite yet, but is gaining momentum every year as police stations and other agencies acquire the means to test and submit their samples. The LDIS is city and regionally based depending on the population. Typically, the LDIS sends all their information directly to the SDIS or State DNA Index System and is then sent to the NDIS.

There are more and more medical based DNA databases showing up all the time also. You can submit DNA samples to keep on file for many reasons. Some companies promise to analyze your DNA for mutations that might increase your odds of certain types of cancer. These databases promise anonymity but sometimes have been known to sell their databases. The police can usually get access to these databases as well. This causes quite a bit of controversy regarding privacy, so research a company thoroughly before you ever send in a DNA sample. You wouldn't give your social security number to some strange company so imagine giving them your DNA. Be careful!

Many databases use their information to compare DNA and do general research on different strands of DNA and try to figure out more about it. This is a helpful thing to contribute to if you feel comfortable but again, be wary of the privacy issues and read all the fine print. There is a high demand for DNA for profiling groups of people at the moment. Medical companies use the DNA they receive for all kinds of testing and comparing. It is a great tool to track lineage and medical conditions throughout the years in specific groups and areas.