Genetic technology has become a tool of extreme versatility, for DNA provides clues to every mystery life holds: in crime, disease, the past – even human evolution itself.

Scientists have finally solved one of the great mysteries of European history: the fate of Louis XVII. Popularly known as the ‘lost dauphin’, Louis was the son of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. He was said to have died in prison during the French Revolution but many people claimed that he had been rescued and replaced by an impostor. Recently, however, DNA was extracted from the preserved heart that was thought to be Louis’s. It matched conclusively to his living relatives, thus disproving claims from those who say they are descendants of the ‘true’ king.

A young mother was found murdered in Canada. Among the suspects was her exhusband, who was living with his parents nearby. Police found a jacket with bloodstains matching the woman’s blood, and several white hairs. The hairs were thought to be from a cat and a policeman remembered seeing a white cat at the parents’ home. Forensic investigators carried out DNA tests on the cat hair – and the results matched. It is reported to have been the first time that animal DNA was allowed as evidence in Canada, and the man was convicted.

It is thought that famous brand names are increasingly using DNA technology to protect their products from unauthorised copying. In order to reduce the threat of fraud, all official goods for the 2000 Australian Summer Olympic Games were labelled with ink containing DNA taken from an unnamed athlete. A team of ‘logocops’ armed with special DNA scanners was sent out to investigate. They are believed to have identified fake Olympic souvenirs worth millions of pounds. The new technology is expected to ensure the authenticity of sports items for years to come.