ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 6 April 2005
Page Count: 9

A Simple Automated Instrument for DNA Extraction in Forensic Casework
Fitch, IT
Forensic Biology Section, San Diego Police Department, CA

O'Donnell, PT
Forensic Biology Section, San Diego Police Department, CA

Montpetit, SA
Forensic Biology Section, San Diego Police Department, CA

(Received 8 May 2004; accepted 30 October 2004)

Abstract

The Qiagen BioRobot EZ1 is a small, rapid, and reliable automated DNA extraction instrument capable of extracting DNA from up to six samples in as few as 20 min using magnetic bead technology. The San Diego Police Department Crime Laboratory has validated the BioRobot EZ1 for the DNA extraction of evidence and reference samples in forensic casework. The BioRobot EZ1 was evaluated for use on a variety of different evidence sample types including blood, saliva, and semen evidence. The performance of the BioRobot EZ1 with regard to DNA recovery and potential cross-contamination was also assessed. DNA yields obtained with the BioRobot EZ1 were comparable to those from organic extraction. The BioRobot EZ1 was effective at removing PCR inhibitors, which often co-purify with DNA in organic extractions. The incorporation of the BioRobot EZ1 into forensic casework has streamlined the DNA analysis process by reducing the need for labor-intensive phenol-chloroform extractions.

Keywords:
forensic science, forensic biology, forensic casework, deoxyribonucleic acid extraction, Qiagen BioRobot EZ1, paramagnetic beads, automation, robotics

Paper ID: JFS2004181
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2004181
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.