Analytical approaches to differential extraction for sexual assault evidence

Abstract

Many forensic laboratories face growing demands for the processing of DNA evidence from sexual assault investigations. In these cases, evidence collected from the crime scene or from the victim in the form of a Sexual Assault and Evidence Collection Kit (SAECK) typically contains a mixture of cells from at least two donors. Isolation of DNA contributions to link a sample to an alleged offender requires precise chemical treatment of each sample with the goal of separating epithelial cells from non-sperm cells. Currently, the vast majority of laboratories employ differential chemical lysis methods that require lengthy incubations and several manual steps, preventing complete automation. Numerous alternative methods for the differential extraction (DE) of sexual assault evidence have been developed to provide a solution to the growing backlog of samples observed in the US and other countries. Here, we will discuss the predominant methodology for the DE of DNA from sexual assault samples and review alternative approaches from literature. We illustrate three criteria that provide a measure of success in performing these types of chemical separations and examine all methods based upon these expectations. We conclude by providing some general insight into the application of DE techniques in forensic laboratories and discuss the potential future directions of alternative technologies.