Biological Evidence
Forensic Research at UCF

Biological Evidence Research

	Y-Chromosome STR (Y-STR) in Operational Use: Speedy Rape Kit Analysis We have developed the capability of typing 19 Y-STR loci in two multiplex systems, MPI and MPII, and have completed a full SWGDAM developmental validation of the MPI and MPII systems.
	Detection of RNA Expression in Biological Stains In the mess and confusion of a crime scene, the origin of a particular stain is not always apparent. Until recently all body-fluid identification testing was expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. Now stains can be discerned quickly, accurately, and efficiently using mRNA analysis.
	Low Copy Number (LCN) Analysis This project is concerned with the investigation of potential strategies for analyzing samples containing low copy number (LCN) DNA templates. We are investigating ways that the DNA template could be DNA profiled, including whole genome amplification and single cell methods.
	In Vitro Repair of Damaged DNA The aims of this project are to ascertain the types of DNA damage encountered in forensically relevant stains and to attempt to repair such damage by means of in vitro DNA repair systems.
	Forensic Biometrics The purpose of this project is to determine, from DNA/RNA, the physical characteristics from an individual depositing a particular biological stain at a crime scene.
	Mitochondrial Analysis by Pyrosequencing Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis is often used in forensic cases in which traditional nuclear DNA is unsuccessful. The goal of this project is to evaluate a novel sequencing technology, pyrosequencing, for its potential applicability to forensic casework.