British researchers have discovered a method of telling apart identical twins by examining their DNA, according to Newser.com.
Identical twins have identical DNA, which on occasion creates problems for crime scene investigators, Newser.com reports. One twin might blame another for a crime, or both twins might be suspects.
Science Daily reports that a new method of processing DNA samples can determine one identical twin from another. Scientists heat the DNA samples to their melting point, or the point "at which the hydrogen bonds in our DNA break," Newser.com reports.
Each twin's DNA melts at a slightly different temperature. Such variances can be cause by lifestyle differences, such as smoking or exposure to sunlight, Newser.com reports.
The method is not foolproof, Newser.com reports, because it requires a high-quality DNA sample. Crime-scene DNA evidence might not be of sufficient quality.
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