Revista de investigación forense

Generating Rapid DNA Profiles from Crime Scene Samples Commonly Encountered in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Aamer Alshehhi and Reena Roy

Short tandem repeat (STR) DNA profiles are routinely generated from blood and saliva stains found on items of evidence collected at crime scenes. Current study utilized the fully integrated RapidHIT™ Human DNA Identification System (IntegenX, Pleasanton, CA, USA) to generate STR profiles from simulated crime scene evidence samples, similar to the ones commonly encountered at indoor crime scenes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The two body fluids were deposited on each of these items and processed. Data generated from 120 samples using this automated system and the “Run Other Samples” instrument protocol were in complete concordance with the data generated with traditional method used in forensic laboratories. Sensitivity study performed with this instrument indicated that complete profiles can be obtained from 0.25 μL of blood and 10.0 μL of saliva.

Varying amounts of both of the body fluids were deposited on 25 different types of substrates containing potential inhibitors such as dyes and soil. Fifteen of these substrates containing body fluids were incubated at 48°C heat and 43% humidity for 24 hours. These conditions were used to mimic indoor crime scenes at the UAE during the Summer Season. Complete and concordant profiles were generated from most of these samples.