Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNA?
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information. DNA is inherited from our parents and we get half of our DNA from our mothers and half from our fathers. Other than identical twins, no two human beings have the same DNA profile.
What types for forensic samples can be tested for DNA?
The most typical samples are bloodstains, oral swabs, bones and gun swabs. Due to the very sensitive technology used in DNA testing, it is very common to get a full DNA profile back from a gun swab. Almost any piece of evidence found a crime scene could possibly be tested for DNA.
What is a reference sample and how do I get one?
Here at Pure Gold Forensics, we use the BODE SecurSwab Collectors® for all of our reference samples. We have found that the BODE Securswab Collectors® are perfect for reference samples because they preserve the sample perfectly and drastically reduce the risk of contamination. Pure Gold Forensics will send a trained scientist to retrieve a reference sample if you or your client are incarcerated or not. If an individual is incarcerated, then we would need court-ordered approval to retrieve a reference sample from our client.
Can you get DNA from a hair sample?
Yes, there are two different ways to get DNA from a hair sample. First, if the hair sample has a root attached to the follicle, then standard STR DNA typing is suitable. If the hair does not have a root attached to the follicle, then Mitochondrial DNA testing would need to be performed. Pure Gold Forensics does not conduct Mitochondrial DNA testing.
Can your laboratory process trace DNA samples?
Yes, absolutely. For example, our lab processes many samples from gun swabs, and we expect to get a complete profile back in every case. There are also other factors that can affect how much DNA is left for us to swab. If the item has been cleaned with bleach or if the item has been previously swabbed by another agency are just a couple of examples.