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	NCJ Number:	NCJ 242773
	Title:	Automating the Differential Digestion Method in the Analysis of Sexual Assault Cases Using Selective Degradation
	Document URL:	PDF
	Author(s):	Helena G. Wong ; Jennifer S. Mihalovich ; George Sensabaugh
	Date Published:	2013
	Page Count:	48
	Annotation:	This project developed and tested an automated differential digestion process that uses selective degradation with DNase 1 in order to remove non-sperm DNA from a mixed sample of evidence in a sexual assault case, thus saving time and labor.
	Abstract:	The protocol uses 96-well plates and incorporates microscope slide preparations, resulting in high efficiency and high throughput. Although initial evaluations of the DNase process produced lower DNA yield and inferior STR DNA typing quality compared to the conventional differential digestion. This was corrected by optimizing the concentrations of the divalent ions magnesium and calcium, along with the quantity of DNase used. This modification increased both the DNA yield and the quality of the STR DNA typing results. The protocol was tested on samples stored for extended time periods (up to 60 years) and on samples exposed to multiple freeze/thaw cycles or heat and humidity. All samples subjected to the new protocol produced results similar to samples processed by the conventional differential digestion method. The result was the production of sperm fractions with no or minimal epithelial cell carry-over. 7 tables, 29 figures, and 22 references
	Main Term(s):	Criminology
	Index Term(s):	Blood/body fluid analysis ; Rape investigations ; Forensics/Forensic Sciences ; Investigative techniques ; Sex offense investigations ; DNA fingerprinting ; NIJ final report
	Sponsoring Agency:	National Institute of Justice (NIJ) US Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs United States of America
	Grant Number:	2010-DN-BX-K182
	Sale Source:	NCJRS Photocopy Services Box 6000 Rockville, MD 20849-6000 United States of America
	Type:	Report (Study/Research) ; Report (Grant Sponsored)
	Country:	United States of America
	Language:	English
	To cite this abstract, use the following link: https://www.ncjrs.gov/App/Publications/abstract.aspx?ID=264848
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