Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has recently emerged as a robust technology for Forensic Science. We have carried out an internal validation of a whole genome sequencing methodology for forensic use, primarily genetic genealogy on a NextSeq2000.  An in-house solution is considered desirable to address the sample privacy and data security concerns of the local population.  Currently Kintelligence is used in-house for genealogy casework.  Whilst sensitive and human specific the limited genetic reach means that a complementary WGS approach is needed for forensic casework.  A pilot study showed that the NextSeq2000 had sufficient capacity for small scale WGS.  By small scale we mean a small number of samples.  A bioinformatic pipeline was also developed.  Validation determined the best library preparation method given that both double stranded and single stranded DNA extracts are stored from older casework samples. Whilst undertaking standard validation experiments such as sensitivity and reproducibility we have focused on casework type samples and quality assurance to enable an effective case strategy to be determined.  Here we present the results of our validation and the lessons learned.

Authors

• SallyAnn Harbison (School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland and New Zealand Institute of Public Health and Forensic Science, New Zealand)
• Liam Barry (New Zealand Institute of Public Health and Forensic Science, New Zealand)
• Yao-Yuan Liu (New Zealand Institute of Public Health and Forensic Science, New Zealand)