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FBI Approves Thermo Fisher Scientific Forensic Sequencing Solution for National DNA Index System

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Decision enables human identification labs to upload genetic profiles to national database using Applied Biosystems Precision ID panel for mitochondrial DNA analysis

14 Jul 2019
Charlie Carter
Life Sciences Editor

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The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has approved Thermo Fisher Scientific's Applied Biosystems Precision ID System mtDNA analysis solution for use by forensic laboratories to generate mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) profiles for submission to the U.S. National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS database. The use of mtDNA in forensics over the past several decades has played a pivotal role in helping to solve missing person cases and identification of remains recovered from mass disasters.

Due to its high copy number per cell, mtDNA is the primary testing method for forensic laboratories that routinely analyze extremely challenging samples, such as decades-old bone fragments, teeth and other human remains. While the methodology has proven useful to help close missing person cases, for example, profiles derived from next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based platforms could not be uploaded to the national database until recently. Approval of the panel now provides laboratories with the ability to analyze the most challenging missing persons and criminal casework samples while providing the greatest level of discrimination through whole mtDNA genome analysis.

The Precision ID mtDNA Whole Genome Panel is part of a NGS-based system that includes the Ion GeneStudio S5 System, the Ion Chef System for automated library and template generation, as well as forensically relevant Precision ID panels for mtDNA analysis. The Precision ID mtDNA panels give forensic DNA laboratories the ability to detect variation within noncoding control region sequences using as little as 2 pg of DNA.

The end to end solution also includes the Applied Biosystems Converge Software NGS Data Analysis module, which automates mitochondrial DNA analysis by leveraging optimized base calling, phylogenetically guided alignment and quality filtering algorithms.

"The Precision ID System for mtDNA analysis offers excellent sensitivity for both sample quality and quantity," said Rosy Lee, vice president and general manager of Human Identification for Thermo Fisher Scientific. "Traditional methods for mtDNA analysis can be time-consuming and expensive. With the NDIS approval of Precision ID System, forensic scientists can now maximize the potential of this forensic genetic marker."

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Applied Biosystems 3500 Genetic Analyzer

Thermo Fisher Scientific

We set a new standard in capillary electrophoresis with the 8-capillary 3500 and 24-capillary 3500xL Genetic Analyzers. The 3500 8-capillary platform can run a wide variety of applications —including de novo sequencing and resequencing (mutational profiling)—as well as microsatellite analysis, MLPA™, LOH, MLST, AFLP® and SNP validation or screening. The majority of applications can be run on a single polymer and capillary array. The 3500 Series Data Collection Software integrates seamlessly with several downstream software packages to provide comprehensive analysis of genetic data. Note: See user's manual or package insert for limited label license, and trademark information. For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostics procedures.

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Genome AnalysisGenomics, the study of genomes, includes functional genomics, evolutionary genomics and comparative genomics. There are many genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing of whole genomes, computational biology and bioinformatics. DNA and nucleic acids must be isolated and concentrated from cells for analysis with kits, automated analyzers and software. Other useful technologies for studying genomics include PCR, microarrays and electrophoresis.DNA SequencingDNA sequencing, such as sanger sequencing, is a biological technique that determines the precise order of nucleotide bases in a fragment or template of DNA. DNA sequencers and genetic analyzers are based on capillary electrophoresis, where labeled DNA fragments are electrophoretically separated by size as they migrate through a polymer. Find the best DNA sequencing products, including DNA sequencing kits, genomic libraries and genetic identity kits in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.DNA / RNA QuantificationDetection and quantification of nucleic acids is important in molecular biology, cloning, expression, forensics and clinical diagnostics. Nucleic acids can be detected by labeling with colorimetric, fluorescent or radio labels and using in situ hybridization kits to identify specific sequences. Multiple nucleic acids can be detected and quantified at once using RNA / DNA detection beads or RNA / DNA microarrays. Find the best DNA / RNA Quantification products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Next Generation SequencingNext-generation sequencing (NGS), also known as whole-genome sequencing, high-throughput sequencing and massive parallel sequencing, produces and analyses thousands to millions of nucleotide sequences at once. Sequencing systems operate via varying technologies depending on the manufacturer, including sequencing by synthesis, ligation, pyrosequencing, ion semiconductor and single-molecule real-time sequencing. For NGS, library preparation is paramount to successful sequencing. In this section, explore a range of library preparation kits, from targeted, amplicon-based or hybridization-based kits including epigenomic, transcriptomic and genomic workflows to fragmentation kits. Find the best next-generation sequencing products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.DNADeoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) is the main component of chromosomes and the carrier of genetic information of living organisms. Find out here about PCR, NGS, ChIP-Seq, gel imaging, and many other techniques which can be used for the analysis of DNA.Forensic InvestigationForensic investigation is a diverse collection of scientific techniques and methods for the identification and characterization of chemicals relating to crime scene investigations.

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