- 01 Introduction
- 02 Biology of DNA
- 03 Practical Issues Specific to DNA Evidence
- 04 Introduction to the Forensic DNA Laboratory
- 05 Assuring Quality in DNA Testing
- 06 Understanding a Forensic DNA Lab Report
- 07 Statistics and Population Genetics
- 08 Mitochondrial DNA & Y-STR Analysis
- 09 Forensic DNA Databases
- 10 Collection of DNA Evidence from Suspects and Arrestees
- 11 Pretrial DNA Evidence Issues
- 12 Victim Issues
- 13 Trial Presentation
- 14 Postconviction DNA Cases
- 15 Emerging Trends
Principles of Forensic DNA
for Officers of the Court
for Officers of the Court
Module 15 :: Emerging Trends
Topic 3 :: Microbial Forensics and DNA Testing
Microbiology and Criminal Investigations
Microbiology and forensic methods are beginning to merge in criminal investigations. Consider the following potential scenarios:
- Bioterrorism: Individuals at multiple locations are exposed to anthrax. Can scientists identify the exact DNA strain and source of the B. anthracis used?
- Suspicious death: A hospital patient succumbs to a staphylococcal infection that could have been prevented by proper procedures. Where did the infection originate, and how was it transmitted?
- Intentional infection: One person intentially infects another person with HIV. Can the donor of the virus be confirmed by DNA typing of a specific viral strain?
- Large-scale food poisoning: Numerous individuals throughout a major U.S. city are hospitalized with food poisoning. Can the origin of an infectious agent such as E. coli or salmonella be found to prevent further outbreaks?
