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P119 – Evaluating the RapidHIT™ ID System for Sexual Assault and Crime Evidence
Rapid DNA platforms were initially developed to quickly process reference DNA samples, enabling timely comparisons with unknown profiles from unsolved crime cases. Forensic laboratories have since sought to extend their use to crime scene exhibits, aiming to generate timely investigative leads through short turnaround times and ease of use. Previous studies have demonstrated the reliability of these platforms for DNA-rich, single-source samples such as blood and saliva. However, there is limited data on their performance with low-quantity or mixed DNA samples which are commonly encountered in forensic casework.
Our study evaluated the performance of the RapidHIT™ ID System with the RapidINTEL™ Plus (INTEL+) cartridge across a range of sample types, including blood, semen, human tissue, cigarette butts and “touch” DNA. We also examined its performance on mixed DNA samples using mock female intimate swabs, which usually represent the most probative evidence in sexual assault investigations. These swabs are typically rich in female DNA, which can mask the detection of lower-level male DNA. To address this challenge, we explored a pre-treatment approach involving the addition of dithiothreitol to enhance the recovery of male DNA from the swabs.
Finally, we demonstrated the recovery of DNA from the waste pad and the expended sample swab retrieved from the used INTEL+ cartridge, enabling result verification through the standard DNA laboratory workflow.
Authors
- Hong Han LIM (Health Sciences Authority, Singapore)
- Baoqiang HENG (Health Sciences Authority, Singapore)
- Xavier Liang Shun CHAN (Health Sciences Authority, Singapore)
- Christopher Kiu-Choong SYN (Health Sciences Authority, Singapore)
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