- 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 4 :: Intro To the Lab
Topic 1 :: History and Development of Forensic DNA Analysis
DNA Typing—The PCR Revolution
While RFLP technology provided the ability to individualize samples to their donors, it required a large amount of biological sample and the presence of high-quality (non-degraded) DNA. RFLP testing averaged 10-12 weeks to complete.
PCR technology permitted very small samples and partially degraded DNA to be tested. It also shortened the analysis time from weeks to days. This technology is the primary reason why DNA testing is increasingly being used today as an investigative tool for law enforcement.
