Forensic Services

Enhanced DNA analysis

Cellmark has developed a technique which substantially increases the sensitivity of conventional DNA analysis. As an alternative to using Low Copy Number (LCN) analysis, the Enhanced DNA analysis technique allows the sensitivity of the analysis to be increased in stages such that the level of sensitivity required is tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. This technique bridges the gap in sensitivity between conventional DNA analysis and LCN analysis.

The Enhanced DNA analysis technique can be used in a wide range of cases and because the technique involves a staged increase in the level of sensitivity, the technique can be tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. In order to be able to interpret a DNA profile, the DNA components within the profile must meet certain criteria. The Enhanced DNA analysis technique can be used to increase the number of DNA components in the profile that meet these criteria. By maximising the number of DNA components that meet these criteria, this can significantly increase the evidential or intelligence significance in the police investigation.

Cellmark Forensic Services has been using this technique in a wide variety of cases since 2004 with great success. Initially developed to assist in the investigation of cold cases, the technique has since been used on a large number of current investigations ranging from burglaries to murders.

Enhanced DNA analysis technique may be used to:

LCN

Low Copy Number (LCN) is a much more sensitive form of the conventional DNA analysis used routinely in forensic casework.

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