An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis, Second Edition
Features
Summary
Significant advances in DNA analysis techniques have surfaced since the 1997 publication of the bestselling An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis. DNA typing has become increasingly automated and miniaturized. Also, with the advent of Short Tandem Repeat (STR) technology, even the most minute sample of degraded DNA can yield a profile, providing valuable case information. However, just as the judicial system slowly and reluctantly accepted RFLP and AmpliType® PM+DQA1 typing, it is now scrutinizing the admissibility of STRs.
Acknowledging STR typing as the current system of choice, An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis, Second Edition translates new and established concepts into plain English so that laypeople can gain insight into how DNA analysis works, from sample collection to interpretation of results. In response to the shift toward more efficient techniques, the authors cover the legal admissibility of STR typing, expand the chapter on DNA databases, and revise the section on automated analysis. They also present key decisions and appellate or supreme court rulings that provide precedent at the state and federal levels.
Discussing forensic DNA issues from both a scientific and a legal perspective, the authors of An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis, Second Edition present the material in a manner understandable by professionals in the legal system, law enforcement, and forensic science. They cover general principles in a clear fashion and include a glossary of terms and other useful appendices for easy reference.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Nature of Physical Evidence
Science and the Law
Principles and Processes of Criminalistics
Fingerprints and DNA
Conventional Blood Typing
The Collection and Preservation of Physical Evidence
Extraneous Substances
Collection of Evidence
Preservation of Evidence
Evaluation of Evidence
A Short History of DNA Typing
The Scientific Basis of DNA Typing
Why DNA?
An Introduction to Human Genetics
An Introduction to the Molecular Biology of DNA
Two Kinds of Variation
Enzymes, the Workhorses of the Biological World
An Overview of Forensic DNA Typing Systems
RFLP Analysis
PCR Amplification
What Kinds of Samples Can be Analyzed?
How Much Sample Do You Need?
Procedures for Forensic DNA Analysis
Isolation of DNA
Determining Quality and Quantity of DNA
RFLP Analysis
PCR Amplification
Analysis of PCR Product
Automated Analysis Systems
Interpretation of DNA Typing Results
Complicating Factors
System Specific Interpretational Issues
Summary of DNA Interpretation Issues
Assessing the Strength of the Evidence
Determination of Genetic Concordance
Evaluation of Results
Frequency Estimate Calculations
Population Substructure
Likelihood Ratios
When is a DNA Profile Unique?
The DNA Databank
Premise of a Databank
The Difference between a Databank and a Database
Elements of a Successful Databank
Summary
Quality Assurance
Certification and Accreditation
SWDAM (formerly TWGDAM)
NRC I and II
Federal DNA Advisory Board
Admissibility Standards - Science on Trial in the Courtroom
Frye, Daubert, and the Federal Rules of Evidence
DNA - Some Landmark Cases
The State of the Debate
Epilogue
Glossary
Appendices
Editorial Reviews
About the new edition:
"This book, in just a few pages, offers fundamental theory, processes, interpretation, and presentation of DNA evidence in court in an interesting and entertaining way, with illustrative cases liberally sprinkled throughout. … An ideal book."
- J.A. Siegel, Michigan State University, in CHOICE
About the first edition:
"This well-illustrated book also contains many interesting casework examples. It is a very useful reference source, not only for forensic biologists, but for anyone interested in acquiring complete and clear information on past, present, and future trends in forensic DNA analysis."
-Paul Roussy, RCM Police Central Forensic Laboratory, Ontario, Canada
