- Course Introduction
- 01: Evidence & DNA
- 02: Forensic Biology
- 03: DNA Extraction & Quantitation
- 04: DNA Amplification
- Overview
- Introduction
- Amplification
- Primer Design
- Primer Length
- Primer Melting Temperature
- Primer Annealing Temperature
- Values for Tm
- Maximum 3′ Stability
- GC Content Percentage
- No Secondary Structures
- No Self-complementarity
- No Complementarity To Other Primers
- No Long Runs With The Same Base
- Distance Between Two Primers On Target Sequence
- Plateau Effect
- Thermal Cyclers
- Thermal Cycling Parameter and Optimization
- Works Cited & Online Links
- Locus Selection
- Multiplexing
- Contamination
- Overview
- 05: Amplified DNA Product Separation
- 06: STR Data Analysis & Interpretation
- 07: Population Genetics & Statistics
- 08: Communicating Results
- 09: Other DNA Markers & Technologies
- Course Resources
- Laboratory Training Manual
President's DNA Initiative
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Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
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Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
DNA Analyst Training
Introduction
Home > DNA Amplification > Contamination > Introduction
Current methods used by forensic DNA laboratories are sensitive and capable of amplifying and detecting low quantities of DNA. With the ability to detect minute quantities of DNA, comes an increased chance of detecting contaminant DNA in both samples and controls. Contamination can happen during any step of the process and can result from a variety of substances, including plant material, bacteria, and human genomic DNA. There are occasions when the source of contamination cannot be determined and/or the incidences are sporadic in nature.
It is not always possible to prevent contamination; however, laboratories should ensure that procedures are in place to:
- Minimize the risk of contamination
- Detect contamination
- Document and implement corrective measures for incidents of contamination
This module focuses on extraneous human genomic DNA deposited after the crime event (during the collection and/or analysis process).
Objectives
Upon successful completion of this unit of instruction, the student shall be able to:
- Recognize the sources of laboratory contamination
- Describe how to minimize the risk of contamination
- Describe the processes that aid in the detection of contamination
- Describe how to implement corrective action processes
