**Core Concept**
The question pertains to the identification of an individual, which is a critical aspect of forensic medicine. The most reliable method of identification relies on the uniqueness of biological markers that can be used to distinguish one person from another.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is DNA profiling, which involves the analysis of genetic material present in an individual's cells. This method is considered the most reliable due to the unique sequence of nucleotides in an individual's DNA, which is determined by their genetic makeup. DNA profiling involves the extraction and analysis of DNA from various sources, such as blood, saliva, or tissue samples, and can be used to identify individuals with a high degree of accuracy. The process involves amplifying specific regions of the DNA, known as short tandem repeats (STRs), which are then compared to a reference sample to determine identity.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Fingerprinting is a method of identification that relies on the uniqueness of an individual's fingerprints. However, it is not as reliable as DNA profiling, as fingerprints can be altered or destroyed, and may not be present in all cases.
**Option B:** Facial recognition is a method of identification that relies on the unique features of an individual's face. However, it is not a reliable method, as faces can change over time due to aging, and may not be unique to each individual.
**Option D:** Iris scanning is a method of identification that relies on the unique patterns of an individual's iris. However, it is not as reliable as DNA profiling, as iris patterns can be altered or damaged, and may not be present in all cases.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
DNA profiling is a highly reliable method of identification, and is widely used in forensic medicine and paternity testing. It is essential to note that DNA profiling can only be used to identify individuals who have left behind a biological sample, such as blood, saliva, or tissue.

**Correct Answer: C. DNA profiling. DNA profiling is the most reliable method of identification of an individual.**