Staying current with the latest technology is challenging and can be overwhelming for forensic science laboratories. Lab professionals continuously consider how to efficiently process increased sample numbers, despite on-going resource constraints. At HIDS 2021, forensic scientists from around the globe discussed how they have implemented new instrumentation and chemistry to increase their labs’ productivity.
CE analysis in just one click
In this video, three forensic scientists discussed how they utilize the Applied Biosystems SeqStudio Genetic Analyzer for Human Identification in their labs. This 4-capillary instrument can easily be used across a broad range of forensic applications by multiple users. Masaki Hashiyada, Ph.D. from Kansai Medical University Osaka (Japan) works in forensic education, research, and provides expert service to Prefectural Police Laboratories when they are unable to get a DNA profile from cold cases, old bone samples, and low template low template DNA samples. Nicole Novroski, Ph.D. from the University of Toronto Mississauga (Canada) was tasked to set up a new forensic teaching laboratory. She describes her new program that gives students the opportunity to design experiments and spend ample time learning to use the equipment that will be in crime laboratories as they begin their careers. Pamela Marshall, Ph.D. from Duquesne University (USA) recently upgraded to the SeqStudio system from the Applied Biosystems ABI PRISM 3130 Genetic Analyzer in her forensic teaching program where students are working on projects from detecting human DNA in local water reservoirs to recovering DNA from endangered species. These real-life stories show how the SeqStudio system, with its all-in-one cartridge, can easily support many projects.
Using one STR Amplification kit for both casework and database applications
The validation and implementation of STR PCR amplification kits for forensic applications require a significant allocation of laboratory resources and time. There are several important drivers for the use of a single kit for both casework and reference samples during validation and implementation, as well as for routine use. Luke Ryan from Forensic and Scientific Services Queensland Health (Australia) is evaluating the Applied Biosystems VeriFiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit and in this video details the advantages of using a single kit– fewer consumables to order and QC, fewer instrument run protocols to remember, fewer competency evaluations for forensic scientists, and most importantly, profile comparisons when the markers are in the same location in the electropherogram.
A case study in validation partnership
As the Northern Louisiana Crime Laboratory (USA) planned to embark on a validation project in their laboratory, Jessica Esparza, Ph.D., DNA Technical Leader, consulted with the Human Identification Professional Services (HPS) team to plan a workflow validation of the Quantifiler Trio DNA Quantification Kit along with autosomal and Y STR kits on their Applied Biosystems 3500 Genetic Analyzer. During this time, they made the decision to bring on the VeriFiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit which would require NDIS approval. In this video, Jessica and Jarrett Roth, North America HPS Manager from Thermo Fisher Scientific, discuss the evolution of this partnership, from project planning to wet work to training and teachback.
You can learn more about integrated human identification solutions and services, and how these can assist in helping you achieve your goals.
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