DNA extraction is a crucial step in forensic casework, especially when working with low template samples. Micro traces such as touch DNA or telogen hair roots often contain only minute amounts of DNA. Purification steps involved in conventional extraction methods further diminish available DNA quantities, sometimes reaching levels below detection limits. Therefore, using direct lysis approaches such as the new Investigator Casework GO! Kit offers the opportunity to save most of the valuable biological material for downstream analysis. Comparison of different extraction methods demonstrates the superiority of casework direct methods in the analysis of micro traces such as touch DNA samples, single skin cells, and telogen hair root.

This webinar will focus on some of the first results obtained using the new Investigator Casework GO! Kit when analyzing trace casework evidence.