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Han J, Zhuang B, Zou L, Wang D, Jiang L, Wei YL, Zhao L, Zhao L, Li C. A developmental validation of the Quick TargSeq 1.0 integrated system for automated DNA genotyping in forensic science for reference samples. Electrophoresis 2024. [PMID: 38459798 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Analysis of short tandem repeats (STRs) is a global standard method for human identification. Insertion/Deletion polymorphisms (DIPs) can be used for biogeographical ancestry inference. Current DNA typing involves a trained forensic worker operating several specialized instruments in a controlled laboratory environment, which takes 6-8 h. We developed the Quick TargSeq 1.0 integrated system (hereinafter abbreviated to Quick TargSeq) for automated generation of STR and DIP profiles from buccal swab samples and blood stains. The system fully integrates the processes of DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, and electrophoresis separation using microfluidic biochip technology. Internal validation studies were performed using RTyper 21 or DIP 38 chip cartridges with single-source reference samples according to the Scientific Working Group for DNA Analysis Methods guidelines. These results indicated that the Quick TargSeq system can process reference samples and generate STR or DIP profiles in approximately 2 h, and the profiles were concordant with those determined using traditional STR or DIP analysis methods. Thus, reproducible and concordant DNA profiles were obtained from reference samples. Throughout the study, no lane-to-lane or run-to-run contamination was observed. The Quick TargSeq system produced full profiles from buccal swabs with at least eight swipes, dried blood spot cards with two 2-mm disks, or 10 ng of purified DNA. Potential PCR inhibitors (i.e., coffee, smoking tobacco, and chewing tobacco) did not appear to affect the amplification reactions of the instrument. The overall success rate and concordance rate of 153 samples were 94.12% and 93.44%, respectively, which is comparable to other commercially available rapid DNA instruments. A blind test initiated by a DNA expert group showed that the system can correctly produce DNA profiles with 97.29% genotype concordance with standard bench-processing methods, and the profiles can be uploaded into the national DNA database. These results demonstrated that the Quick TargSeq system can rapidly generate reliable DNA profiles in an automated manner and has the potential for use in the field and forensic laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junping Han
- Technology Department of Chaoyang Sub-bureau, Beijing Public Security Bureau, Beijing, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Beijing Engineering Research Center of Crime Scene Evidence Examination, National Engineering Laboratory for Forensic Science, Institute of Forensic Science, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bin Zhuang
- Beijing CapitalBio Technology Ltd. Co., Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Lixin Zou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, Jiangsu International Joint Center of Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Daoyu Wang
- People's Public Security University of China, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Li Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Beijing Engineering Research Center of Crime Scene Evidence Examination, National Engineering Laboratory for Forensic Science, Institute of Forensic Science, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Liang Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Phylogenomics and Comparative Genomics, Jiangsu International Joint Center of Genomics, School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Lijian Zhao
- Beijing CapitalBio Technology Ltd. Co., Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Beijing Engineering Research Center of Crime Scene Evidence Examination, National Engineering Laboratory for Forensic Science, Institute of Forensic Science, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Caixia Li
- Key Laboratory of Forensic Genetics, Beijing Engineering Research Center of Crime Scene Evidence Examination, National Engineering Laboratory for Forensic Science, Institute of Forensic Science, Beijing, P. R. China
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Harrel M, Holmes AS. Review of direct PCR and Rapid DNA approaches to streamline sexual assault kit testing. J Forensic Sci 2022; 67:1336-1347. [PMID: 35442526 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Crime laboratories have been faced with large casework backlogs due to lengthy processing times, limited resources and scientists, and rising crime rates. Evidence related to sexual assault crimes, specifically sexual assault kits (SAKs), heavily contribute to the reported backlogs. Although more sensitive, faster chemistries and automated techniques have been implemented over the years, the traditional STR workflow remains relatively unchanged. Enhanced workflows such as direct PCR and Rapid DNA have the potential to streamline the processing of forensic evidence items including those commonly submitted in SAKs, but the FBI QAS guidelines restrict CODIS-approved labs from implementing these methods for forensic samples. Recent studies have shown decreased turnaround times and improved or comparable profiling success with both approaches. However, review of the literature shows a lack of in-depth research comparing traditional DNA workflows to faster and more sensitive direct PCR and/or Rapid DNA approaches for evidentiary samples, especially for SAKs. By providing the forensic science and criminal justice communities with the strengths and limitations of direct PCR and Rapid DNA methods, stakeholders and policy makers may be better informed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Harrel
- Center for Advanced Genomics, Signature Science, LLC, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Amy S Holmes
- Center for Advanced Genomics, Signature Science, LLC, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Martin B, Kaesler T, Linacre A. Analysis of rapid HIT application to touch DNA samples. J Forensic Sci 2022; 67:1233-1240. [PMID: 34978082 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rapid DNA technology is being utilized for reference profiles worldwide. There is also strong data in the literature to support its use for high-template DNA sources, the same is not true for low-template sources, such as touch DNA; this is a requirement before wider implementation to forensic casework is considered. We report on the Rapid HIT Intel cartridge's ability to facilitate successful amplification of touch DNA to obtain profiles from template deposited on items commonly encountered in forensic casework. Eight items were touched in ten replicates- two were tapelifted, three swabbed, and three directly inserted. Significance was observed in the alleles amplified and RFU with respect to sample type. Three samples performed well: cable tie, fabric, and matchstick. As two of these were directly inserted, this should be considered for any sample small enough. Placement of highly absorbent substrates into the cartridge is not advised as it can cause a lysate-pull error. Heterozygote loci often presented as homozygous (32%-78% loci per profile); this was influenced by substrate type and profile RFU. Loci with larger masses exhibited higher false homozygosity also. Comparison of the donor's profile analyzed was performed against previous datasets analyzing touch DNA through standard workflow, including manual DNA extraction, PCR, and CE separation. These data show that for all substrates, except for a fabric swatch, standard processing is preferential to Rapid HIT analysis. In its current form, rapid DNA technology is not fit for the routine analysis of touch DNA samples in forensic casework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Martin
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Todd Kaesler
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Adrian Linacre
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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Romsos EL, French JL, Smith M, Figarelli V, Harran F, Vandegrift G, Moreno LI, Callaghan TF, Brocato J, Vaidyanathan J, Pedroso JC, Amy A, Stoiloff S, Morillo VH, Czetyrko K, Johnson ED, de Tagyos J, Murray A, Vallone PM. Results of the 2018 Rapid DNA Maturity Assessment. J Forensic Sci 2020; 65:953-959. [PMID: 31985834 PMCID: PMC11034630 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Three commercially available integrated rapid DNA instruments were tested as a part of a rapid DNA maturity assessment in July of 2018. The assessment was conducted with sets of blinded single-source reference samples provided to participants for testing on the individual rapid platforms within their laboratories. The data were returned to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for review and analysis. Both FBI-defined automated review (Rapid DNA Analysis) and manual review (Modified Rapid DNA Analysis) of the datasets were conducted to assess the success of genotyping the 20 Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core STR loci and full profiles generated by the instruments. Genotype results from the multiple platforms, participating laboratories, and STR typing chemistries were combined into a single analysis. The Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 80% for full profiles (85% for the 20 CODIS core loci) with automated analysis. Modified Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 90% for both the CODIS 20 core loci and full profiles (all attempted loci per chemistry). An analysis of the peak height ratios demonstrated that 95% of all heterozygous alleles were above 59% heterozygote balance. For base-pair sizing precision, the precision was below the standard 0.5 bp deviation for both the ANDE 6C System and the RapidHIT 200.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Romsos
- Applied Genetics Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD, 20899-8314
| | | | - Mark Smith
- Arizona Department Public Safety, 2102 West Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
| | - Vincent Figarelli
- Arizona Department Public Safety, 2102 West Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
| | - Frederick Harran
- Bensalem Township Police Department, 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem, PA, 19020
| | - Glenn Vandegrift
- Bensalem Township Police Department, 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem, PA, 19020
| | - Lilliana I Moreno
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA, 22135
| | - Thomas F Callaghan
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA, 22135
| | - Joanie Brocato
- Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, 376 East Airport Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70806
| | - Janaki Vaidyanathan
- Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, 376 East Airport Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70806
| | - Juan C Pedroso
- Miami Beach Police Department, 1100 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33139
| | - Andrea Amy
- Miami Beach Police Department, 1100 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33139
| | - Stephanie Stoiloff
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Victor H Morillo
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Karina Czetyrko
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Elizabeth D Johnson
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Jessica de Tagyos
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Ashley Murray
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Peter M Vallone
- Applied Genetics Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD, 20899-8314
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Li M, Tao R, Zhou W, Li Y, Meng M, Zhang Y, Yu L, Chen L, Bian Y, Li C. Validation studies of the ParaDNA ® Intelligence System with artificial evidence items. Forensic Sci Res 2019; 6:84-91. [PMID: 34007520 PMCID: PMC8110186 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2019.1665159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Short tandem repeat (STR) profiling is one of the mostly used systems for forensic applications. In certain circumstances, STR profiling is time-consuming and costly, which potentially leads to delays in criminal investigations. LGC (Laboratory of the Government Chemist, UK) Forensics has developed a robust STR profiling platform called the ParaDNA® Intelligence Test System which can provide early tactical intelligence and aid investigators in making informed decisions on sample prioritization for detection. Here, we validated the ParaDNA intelligence test for its application in forensic cases using a range of mock evidence items following guidelines set by the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM). Specifically, we tested the sensitivity and accuracy of the ParaDNA intelligence test, as well as the success rates for detecting mock samples and for use in case scenarios. Our findings demonstrate that the ParaDNA intelligence test generates useful DNA profiles, especially for samples such as blood, saliva, and semen that contain ample DNA, indicating the benefits of including ParaDNA as a prior step in forensic STR profiling pipelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruiyang Tao
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Yanan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Forensic Medical, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Meng Meng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yilun Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China.,School of Basic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Linsheng Yu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liqin Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yingnan Bian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, China, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengtao Li
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
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Amick GD, Swiger RR. Internal Validation of RapidHIT ® ID ACE Sample Cartridge and Assessment of the EXT Sample Cartridge* †. J Forensic Sci 2018; 64:857-868. [PMID: 30278098 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A new rapid DNA solution, the RapidHIT® ID, can accommodate two different sample cartridges, ACE, for the analysis of a single swab and EXT, for the analysis of DNA extracts. An efficient internal validation designed for low-throughput rapid DNA is described. An evaluation of the EXT sample cartridge is also described. Each cartridge generated profiles with sufficient data quality to meet CODIS eligibility in fewer than 120 min. The results exhibited 100% correlation when compared to conventional DNA typing methods. Precision, reproducibility, stochastic, mixture, and contamination experiments produced expected results. Sensitivity of the ACE sample cartridge was acceptable for buccal swab analysis. The sensitivity of the EXT sample cartridge is discussed. The ACE validation and the EXT evaluation utilized a minimalist, cost-saving, efficient design to generate a validated RapidHIT® ID instrument capable of producing genetic profiles from both extracted forensic DNA samples and buccal swab samples within 120 min.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gray D Amick
- Richland County Sheriff's Department (RCSD) Forensics Laboratory, 5623 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC
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