Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) is a molecular method of genetic analysis that allows individuals to be identified based on unique patterns of restriction enzyme cutting in specific regions of DNA. Also referred to as RFLP Analysis, the technique takes advantage of the polymorphisms in individual people's genetic codes. Even though all members of a species have essentially the same genetic makeup, these slight differences account for variations in phenotype, such as appearance or metabolism, between individuals.
RFLP analysis technique involves cutting a particular region of DNA with known variability, with restriction enzymes, then separating the DNA fragments by agarose gel electrophoresis and determining the number of fragments and relative sizes.