Development of Forensic DNA Techniques Through Time
The development of forensic DNA techniques has been a game-changer for criminal investigations. DNA is a hereditary molecule that contains genetic instructions. It’s the primary factor in determining the way we look.
Although, 99.9% of our DNA is similar to other individuals; it’s the 0.1% that makes us different from other individuals therefore of primary interest to forensic scientists.
Forensic scientists generate a DNA profile from the individual’s biological samples from the crime scene. This DNA profile can be matched with reference DNA from a suspect.
Until around the year 2000, forensics techniques would not be able to generate a DNA profile from tiny samples of biological materials. With forensic DNA techniques development, the sensitivity and the ability to detect invisible biological samples have increased.
Prior to the development of forensic genetics, you would have needed a fresh sample of blood or semen about the size of a dime to generate a DNA profile.
Today, a full DNA profile can be generated from just 50 picograms of DNA (the amount presented in roughly 8 human cells.) Such traces are invisible to the naked eye.
DNA Techniques Over The Years
| Size of DNA sample ⇒ | Large (2 cm) blood stains | Small (mm) size, visible traces | Small, invisible traces | Very small, invisible traces; typically touch traces | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technique ⇒ | 1900 Analysis of Blood Groups (ABO & MN) and proteins. |
1985 DNA Profiling Colin Pitchfork case – the first conviction that relied on DNA evidence.1991 Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat Profiling This technique can generate a DNA profile in a few hours. 1995 |
1996 Mitochondrial DNA It is present in cells in more copies than other types of DNA. So, analyzing it can be useful in a mass disaster such as in a plane crash where DNA may have been damaged by heat or light. Y Chromosomal Analysis This analysis is useful in sexual assault cases.2000 Low Template Analysis The most sensitive technique that can be used on the smallest sample of DNA. |
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| Usability ⇒ | no longer in use | widely used | widely used | in limited use currently used |
Final Thoughts From Sorenson Forensics
Forensic DNA techniques continue to be a dynamic, innovative, and evolving field of research. The amount of information that can be extracted from the tiniest traces of DNA also continues to grow.
It’s time to take stock of the benefits that the latest development in DNA analysis brings. The Sorenson Forensics laboratory is validated to perform the latest forensic DNA analysis techniques. We are committed to the cause of justice and victim advocacy.
Do you need forensic DNA testing help for your case? Feel free to contact us for a free consultation.