The genetic material is separated from the rest of the cells collected in a sample. Scientists first determine how much DNA there is for analysis. The DNA is tagged so that it will fluoresce later in the process. The DNA fragments are then placed in a gel and an electrical current is applied. This is called electrophoresis .
Lasers light up the fluorescent tags.
The fragments are measured and analyzed by a computer. Click above to find out how scientists analyze the patterns. The resulting patterns can be photographed and examined. Click on picture to find out how scientists analyze the patterns. All rights reserved.