Who discovered DNA profiling?

The discovery of DNA profiling is credited to Dr. Alec Jeffreys, who developed this groundbreaking technique in 1984. DNA profiling, also known as DNA fingerprinting, allows for the identification of individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. Dr. Jeffreys's work involved the discovery of variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) in human DNA, which can differ significantly among individuals. This discovery revolutionized forensic science, enabling investigators to link suspects to criminal activities through biological evidence such as blood, hair, or skin cells found at crime scenes.

The other individuals mentioned, while significant in their own fields, are not associated with the development of DNA profiling. Dr. James Watson and Dr. Francis Crick are known for their contributions to the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA in 1953, while Gregor Mendel is renowned for his foundational work in the field of genetics through his studies on inheritance patterns in pea plants. Their contributions laid essential groundwork for molecular biology but do not pertain to the specific invention of DNA profiling.