Forensic Analysis of Biological Evidence

A powerful tool in the identification of individuals, DNA typing has revolutionized criminal and paternity investigations. Widespread analysis is now conducted by public and private laboratories in the United States and abroad. Focusing on the basic techniques used in forensic DNA laboratories, Forensic Analysis of Biological Evidence: A Laboratory Guide for Serological and DNA Typing introduces readers to the science of serological analysis and DNA typing methods and provides a thorough background of the molecular techniques used to determine an individual’s identity or parental lineage.Originally published as Forensic DNA Analysis: A Laboratory Manual, this revised work offers updated exercises and protocols for all kinds of DNA and serological analyses with delineated objectives, step-by-step procedures, and required laboratory supplies. Each exercise in this manual: Provides an overview of forensic DNA analysis Explains the sources or types of biological material used in a particular DNA analysis Supplies the background principles and practical methodology for specific serological analysis and DNA typing techniques Simulates human forensic testing and can also be used to simulate a wide range of applications for genetic analysisThe book contains an extensive glossary to make readers familiar with terminology used in the forensic analysis of biological evidence, as well as basic terms used in molecular biology. Those who master the material in this volume will understand the methodology of the investigation in DNA typing, develop an understanding of the scientific principles involved in serology and DNA analysis, and succeed in analyzing and interpreting the data generated in each exercise with clarity and confidence.

J. Thomas McClintock, PhD, is a forensic scientist who specializes in the analysis of DNA and the use of insects in legal investigations. Dr. McClintock has evaluated and provided expert guidance in over 300 criminal and paternity cases—in both the public and the private sector—where DNA analysis was performed for individual identification or parentage verification. He has taught numerous training seminars that focus on the principles and methodologies used in forensic DNA typing as well as workshops designed to train prosecutors, investigators, and law enforcement officials. Dr. McClintock is also a professor in the Department of Biology and Chemistry at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he teaches undergraduate courses in microbiology. Dr. McClintock is developing an undergraduate forensic science program at Liberty University that would provide students with cross-disciplinary training with emphasis in the areas of forensic chemistry, forensic biology, and criminal justice. His firm DNA Diagnostics, Inc., a forensic service company that provides DNA testing and the scientific review and analysis of DNA test results performed in forensic casework, was founded in 1993.