DNA/FORENSIC BIOLOGY

DNA analysis provides the ability to test items to make comparisons between the DNA profiles obtained.  The uniqueness of a DNA profile enables the lab to not only produce positive associations between individuals and evidence, but also eliminate individuals that could not have contributed to the DNA evidence. 

Additionally, the DNA laboratory is a designated CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) laboratory.  CODIS is the FBI's DNA database that links all 50 states to provide a means of comparing forensic casework profiles.  The database search may result in linking unsolved cases and can provide significant investigative leads.  For any questions regarding CODIS and/or CODIS investigative leads, email MECODIS@tarrantcountytx.gov.

Links are provided below for the DNA Lab Quality Assurance Protocols as well as all current technical and equipment procedures used by the lab.

DNA Laboratory Quality Assurance Protocols

Serology Procedures

• Abbreviations and Definitions
• Collection and Preservation of Cuttings, Swabs and Scrapings
• Leucomalachite Green (LMG)-Presumptive Test for Blood
• Acid Phosphatase (AP)-Presumptive Test for Semen
• Christmas Tree Stain for the Identification of Spermatozoa
• Test for Prostatic Antigen _ABAcard p30
• Examination Using an Alternate Light Source (ALS)
• DNA_Biology Evidence Workflow and Retention Guidelines
  

DNA Procedures

• Stains Swabs and Tissue Extraction using the Qiagen EZ1 Advanced XL
• Differential Extraction Using the QIAcube Connect and the Qiagen EZ1 Advanced XL
• Large Volume Extraction using the Qiagen EZ1 Advanced XL
  
• Hair Extraction using the Qiagen EZ1 Advanced XL
• Normalization and Amplification Set Up using QIAgility Liquid Handler for GlobalFiler and Yfiler Plus
• GlobalFiler PCR Amplification using GeneAmp PCR System 9700
• YFiler Plus PCR Amplification using GeneAmp PCR System 9700
• Applied Biosystems 3500 Genetic Analyzer Procedures using GlobalFiler and Yfiler Plus
• GeneMapper ID-X Software Protocol for the Analysis of GlobalFiler and Yfiler Plus STR Data
• 3500 Data Assessment and Interpretation Guidelines
• Application of Population Frequency Data for Y-STR Genetic Loci using YHRD
• 3500 Capillary Electrophoresis (CE) Plate Set Up using the QIAgility Liquid Handler with GlobalFiler and Yfiler Plus
• Application of Population Frequency Data for GlobalFiler Genetic Loci
  
• Quantiplex Pro Kit Quantification Set Up using QIAgility Liquid Handler
• Quantiplex Pro Quantification Set Up using a Manual Method

Equipment Procedures

• Autoclave Yamato SM510
• Balances - GENEMATE
• Biological Safety Cabinets_Hoods
• Drysafe Evidence Drying Cabinet
• EZ1 Advanced XL
• Genetic Analyzer 3500
• Heating Blocks_Benchmark Dry Baths
• Incubator_Ovens
• Microcentrifuges
• Microscopes
• Pipettes
• Polilight Rofin PL400_Alternate Light Source (ALS)
• QIAgility Liquid Handler Robots
• 7500 Real Time PCR System with HID Analysis Software
• Refrigerators_Freezers
• Temperature Reading Devices
• Thermal Cycler 9700
• Water System
• QIAcube Connect
• ThermoMixers
• UltraLite ALS Turbo
• Vacufuge