An Integrated, Field Portable DNA Profiler for Forensics

For various defense agencies, DNA profiling can reduce, eliminate and counter threats from unconventional warfare and WMDs. Rapid forensic DNA analysis on suspicious materials can provide crucial information on individuals involved in such activities, and this information can supply national defense personnel and warfighters with increased situational awareness. Currently in forensic DNA profiling, evidence is collected and sent to an independent laboratory to produce a DNA profile, requiring trained personnel and costing $400-$600 with a 2-4 week turnaround. As participants in unconventional warfare use increasingly sophisticated planning and coordination, there is a growing need to conduct DNA profiling in the field and exchange that information with DNA databases. Lynntech proposes to develop an automated, field deployable biometric analysis system that can perform all necessary steps for forensic DNA analysis – DNA extraction, amplification via PCR, separation and detection via STR analysis and comparison with established DNA databases. Results will be provided within one hour of sampling at less than $50 per test. In this Phase I research, Lynntech will demonstrate technology proof-of-concept for the three fundamental components of the system – sample preparation module, convective flow thermal cycler and polyacrylamide electrophoresis microdevice. A prototype of each component will be constructed and demonstrated.