ABSTRACT
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) markers have proven to be very reliable in forensic and diagnostic sciences over the years. Unfortunately, forensic and diagnostic sciences are still at an embryonic stage in Sub-Saharan Africa when compared to what is obtainable in developed nations. The dearth of expertise and state-of-the-art equipment has tremendously slowed down the development and training in the field of forensic and molecular diagnostics in Africa. However, with rising number of molecular biology laboratories across Africa, genetic markers are slowly introduced in our routine testing and medico-legal practice. In molecular diagnostics as well as forensic science, several markers have been used to identify pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi, monitor disease progression and outcome, and identify crime suspects, victims of air mishaps and parentage dispute resolution. This chapter outlines the genetic markers and their applications in the field of forensic and medical diagnostics.
