DNA Profiling Techniques

At Manlove Forensics we provide you with a top quality service in DNA analysis and interpretation. Our forensic scientists have many years experience of interpreting DNA profiles from different items and body fluids and are familiar with DNA results of all levels of complexity, including partial profiles and mixtures.

Where appropriate, we regularly offer an opinion regarding the possible mechanisms of transfer of DNA, whether it be direct or indirect (so-called secondary transfer).

Our forensic scientists are frequently called upon to sample and resample items for DNA analysis, the results normally being ready after two weeks. We are able to provide you with a 48 hour turn-around time from sample submission to DNA result in the most urgent of cases.

We are glad to provide you with DNA reference sampling kits so you can take mouth swabs; we then arrange the efficient processing of your sample.

We also have expertise in more specialised areas of DNA profiling such as Low Copy Number (LCN) analysis. The title Low Copy Number or LCN DNA is a technique of DNA analysis that attempts to amplify and identify extremely small quantities of DNA. LCN DNA is not the only method of this type of analysis with these techniques being loosely grouped as ‘low template DNA analysis techniques'. These techniques are most commonly used to analyse samples for ‘touch DNA' where an individual has made contact with a given item.

Due to the fact that minute quantities of DNA are being analysed, there are a number of challenges presented to the forensic scientist. The interpretation of Low Copy Number DNA results can often be challenging as it is very common for the results to be incomplete (partial) and/or be mixtures of DNA from more than one person. It is also not possible to attribute any LCN DNA result obtained to a specific body fluid due at the very low levels of DNA being analysed.

It is very important that this evidence type is interpreted accurately and adequate checks are made to ensure that the analytical scientist has presented the evidence correctly. We are frequently called upon to carry out such checks and review DNA results in the context of the case; we are highly experienced in this challenging area.

Tel: 0845 371 2486