Forensic Biology
Serological and DNA Analysis
The Forensic Biology section performs serological and DNA analyses on physiological fluids and other nucleated cellular material for the purpose of identification and individualization.
The type of material typically examined includes, but is not limited to, blood, semen, saliva, tissue, and "touch" items collected at crime scenes and from items of physical evidence.
Evidence submitted to the Forensic Biology section is documented and examined for blood, semen, and/or saliva. An alternate light source is utilized to locate latent staining. Identified stains will undergo a series of presumptive screening tests. Stains testing positive at this level of analysis may then be subjected to more extensive testing by DNA analysis. Items that have no visible or latent staining may be suitable for touch DNA collection (swabbing). The DNA profiles generated from these stains and swabbings will be compared to known reference samples.
Forensic Biology has been revolutionized by DNA STR (Short Tandem Repeats) analysis. STR's offer the advantage of short analysis time, a high degree of discrimination, and the ability to look at small and degraded DNA samples. Samples as small as cellular material left behind by prolonged or aggressive handling (touch evidence) can be compared to possible contributors.
This laboratory utilizes capillary electrophoresis-based Genetic Analyzers for this analysis. After a DNA profile is created, if it meets eligibility and suitability criteria established by the FBI, the profile can be searched against local, statewide and national law enforcement databases.
CODIS
The Forensic Biology section is linked to the FBI CODIS (COmbined DNA Index System) DNA database network. Through this network the laboratory is able to enter forensic casework profiles into the database to be searched daily against samples collected from convicted offenders, arrestees, and other case profiles across the country. These searches can provide important investigational leads to aid law enforcement.