Forensic DNA Testing - Frequently Asked Questions

Is your testing lab accredited for forensic casework?

Yes. Our contracted Forensic DNA Testing laboratory is accredited by the:

• American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB International)
• Texas Department of Public Safety.

How long does it take to complete a forensic case?
The length of time to complete forensic cases can vary with the type and number of samples, but usually takes approximately 3-4 weeks for standard processing. RUSH processing is available.

What samples can I send for forensic DNA testing?
Success with different samples varies so it is important to talk to a Forensic DNA Case Consultant to find out more information.

What forensic services does DNA Profiles of Amercia offer?
We provide DNA analysis of evidentiary material, evidence screening, semen detection, blood detection, infidelity testing, criminal paternity testing, expert witness testimony, consultation, and legal support.

What platform and testing systems does you testing lab use?
We use ABI instrumentation and amplification kits.

Who will help me with case issues?
For non-technical questions or case status updates, you may call one of our Forensic DNA Case Consultant at his/her direct toll-free number. Our Laboratory Director and Forensic Analysts are also available to discuss any technical issues with you.

Does DNA Profiles of America offer volume pricing?
If an agency or lab seeks to outsource a larger volume of cases, we offer discounted pricing depending on the number of cases submitted.

How can DNA Profiles of America assist with reference sample collection?
We can provide you with buccal swab sample collection kits, and we can coordinate sample collections at any one of our authorized collection facilities throughout the U.S., and in various locations throughout the world.

What is your chain of custody procedure?
We provide a chain of custody form that should be completed with each sample submission. It contains all necessary information for proper chain of custody, which is required for legal use as evidence.

Does your testing facility perform its own statistical analysis of the data?
Yes. 

What software does your lab use for analysis?
We use ABI Genemapper software for data analysis. We also use proprietary enterprise software to login, track samples, perform automated quality control checks, and for facilitated report writing. Our system is written in SQL server.

What quality control does your lab perform for data analysis?
All procedures are validated in-house following DNA Advisory Board guidelines. Our automated quality control checks include checks on the allelic ladder, control DNA, and the in-lane size standard.

How is expert witness testimony handled?
Our professional staff is available to testify with advance notice on a fee-per-day basis. The client should arrange for the transportation and lodging of our expert, and pay for incidental expenses. You may pay a per diem for incidentals, if that is preferable.

Does your lab perform Y-STR testing?
Yes, we offer ABI Y-filer Y-STR testing.

Does your lab perform mitochondrial DNA testing?
Not in house, but we routinely outsource it to labs accredited for such testing.

When is it appropriate to use Y-STR testing?
If an evidence sample is predominantly female, but with very few male cells, Y-STR testing may reveal a male DNA pattern. Additionally, if there are multiple male contributors to a sample, Y-STR testing may help to delineate the male contributors.

Can you determine the sex of the person tested?
Yes. Amelogenin (a sex-specific marker) is part of our standard forensic DNA profile.

Does your lab run AmpliType DQA1 (DQ Alpha), AmpliType PM (polymarker), or RFLP testing?
Because these are not routinely used in forensic  casework any more, we do not perform the these tests.

Does your lab participate in proficiency testing programs?
Yes, our lab complies will all accreditation requirements for external proficiency testing. A summary of our proficiency results is available upon request.

For more information, please contact our Forensic Sales Team at (866) 844-4DNA