How is DNA testing done at a crime scene?

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Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

According to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS), "Virtually all biological evidence found at crime scenes can be subjected to DNA testing." DNA testing is a regular part of law enforcement procedure in 2010.

Identification

DNA evidence at the crime scene may or may not be easily recognizable. While the presence of blood stands out as potential evidence, a thin strand of hair may be what is needed to achieve a conviction.

Sample Collection

Upon identification, DNA specimens must be collected, transported for analysis and stored very carefully; otherwise, they may be contaminated or otherwise compromised and therefore not admissible in court.

A Common Procedure

According to the NCJRS, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) is a procedure where an examiner cuts the DNA specimen with an enzyme. Evidence is obtained when its fragmented patterns match those of the criminal suspect.

Copying the Original

When a forensic sample is too small or the DNA is degraded, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is sometimes employed, thereby re-creating many DNA molecules from the original.

Other Tests

Some laboratories use a process called reverse dot/blot analysis in which DNA fragments bind to a probe that is attached to a membrane. Short tandem repeats (STR) are used to amplify variation in DNA fragment.

Source:

NCJRS: The Unrealized Potential of DNA Testing

Explore DNA: DNA Crime Scene Collection

More Information:

InsideOut.org: DNA Interactive Testing Procedure

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How is DNA testing done at a crime scene?

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