Which forensic technique is primarily used for DNA profiling?

The primary technique used for DNA profiling is the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). PCR is crucial because it allows for the amplification of specific DNA sequences, enabling forensic scientists to generate enough DNA from a small sample for analysis. In many forensic cases, the initial sample may be limited, so PCR is essential for making the DNA detectable and usable for profiling.

Once the DNA is amplified through PCR, it can then be analyzed using various methods, including gel electrophoresis, which separates the amplified DNA fragments based on size. However, without the initial amplification provided by PCR, there typically would not be enough DNA to work with, making PCR fundamental to the process of DNA profiling itself.

While DNA sequencing determines the exact order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule, and immunoassays are used for detecting proteins or other substances, they are not the primary methods used specifically for generating DNA profiles in forensic contexts.