The goal in forensic science is to eliminate uncertainty, using technology to precisely determine identity. There is no doubt that technology has improved the ability to determine “whodunit”– or who is it, yet researchers continue to refine and improve forensic methods. In forensic DNA analysis, processes such as identification testing, stain analysis and kinship testing, all involve the investigation of short tandem repeat (STR) markers of nuclear DNA, which have proven to be a valuable and sensitive technique. Howver, genomic DNA typing in forensic casework is often limited by samples with low template DNA content, leading to incomplete genetic profiles (dropouts).

Advalytix has developed detailed protocols and fully automated solutions to add the sensitivity and economy of AmpliGrid to established forensic STR kits (Applied Biosystems AmpFISTR® SEfiler™, Promega PowerPlex® 16). For low to medium throughput Olympus developed an AmpliGrid specific upgrade for the Eppendorf epMotion series. For high throughput the AmpliGrid set-up can be automated using the Hamilton Microlab STAR (see video).

In addition, AmpliGrid’s 1µL volume saves reagent costs for high-throughput genotyping applications such as CODIS or paternity testing. Furthermore, several groups are working with AmpliGrid to reduce the number of individual sperm cells needed for human identification, and to develop AmpliGrid-based methods for low copy number (LCN) and touch evidence analysis.

• See how Dr. Lutz-Bohnengel of the Institute for Legal Medicine at Freiburg University is using AmpliGrid to enhance the sensitivity of sequencing mtDNA
• Read how Dr. Proff increases sensitivity of standard STR kits by combining the results of parallel 1µL AmpliGrid reactions.
• See our demo video of fully automated STR typing using the AmpliGrid system on YouTube