ABSTRACT
In preparation for the application of restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis methods to casework, validation studies were performed at the Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency (IMCFSA). They encompassed the following areas: standard specimens, sample consistency, reproducibility, mixed specimens, environmental insults, minimum sample requirements, non-probative casework, repetitive sizing accuracy, precision and match criteria analysis, and population studies including K562 data analysis. All studies yielded results as expected, were consistent with those previously reported by other laboratories, and formed a strong foundation on which to base future casework analysis.
Subject(s)
DNA/analysis , Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length , Blood Stains , DNA Fingerprinting , Female , Humans , Male , Reproducibility of Results , Semen , Vaginal SmearsABSTRACT
The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of blood, semen, and other body fluids, has become increasingly important in violent criminal cases. The identification of additional tissues suitable for comparison with suspected donors has obvious potential benefit. One type of tissue, that found in nasal secretions, has previously received little attention with regards to genetic analysis. We collected blood and nasal secretion samples from eight individuals, subjected them to traditional RFLP typing methods, and analyzed the results using probes for loci D2S44, D1S7, D10S28, D4S139, and D17S79. All nasal samples provided high DNA yields and hybridization results that matched the corresponding blood standards. Thus, nasal secretions are shown to have potentially significant evidentiary value.
