Study the DNA profiles obtained as a result of DNA fingerprinting of a child 'X' and three individuals 1, 2 and 3. Which one of the following options shows the possible parent of the child 'X' ?

The correct option is 1 and 3.

Step-by-step Explanation:
DNA fingerprinting relies on the principles of Mendelian inheritance. A child inherits exactly half of their genomic DNA from their biological mother and the other half from their biological father. Consequently, when analyzing DNA profiles on an electrophoresis gel, every single band present in the child's DNA profile must align horizontally with a matching band in the profile of at least one of the biological parents.

Let us analyze the bands shown in the DNA profiles of child 'X' and the three individuals (1, 2, and 3):
1. By examining the vertical lanes of the DNA gel, we compare each band in the lane of child 'X' to the bands in lanes 1, 2, and 3.
2. We find that some of the bands in child 'X''s profile align perfectly with the bands of individual 1.
3. The remaining bands in child 'X''s profile, which do not match individual 1, align perfectly with the bands of individual 3.
4. Individual 2 does not possess the matching bands necessary to account for the child's genetic profile when combined with either of the other individuals.

Since all the maternal and paternal DNA bands of child 'X' are fully accounted for by the combination of individual 1 and individual 3, they are the possible parents of child 'X'.