Accurate DNA quantification is a critical prerequisite for reliable STR genotyping in forensic casework. Advances in forensic genetics have established Real-Time PCR as a highly sensitive, specific, and reproducible method for quantifying DNA, particularly when working with limited or degraded biological material. This technology enables precise assessment of amplifiable DNA, thereby supporting informed decisions for downstream STR analysis.

The validation of HiMedia’s Insta Q96® AG 6.0 Real-Time PCR System in combination with the HiGenoMB® Forensic-ID DNA Quantification Software was conducted following the technical recommendations of the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) and the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes DNA Working Group (ENFSI). The study encompassed a comprehensive series of performance evaluations, viz., sensitivity, mixture analysis, reproducibility, etc.

HiMedia’s Insta Q96® AG 6.0 Real-Time PCR along with HiGenoMB® Forensic-ID DNA Quantification Software was evaluated with a comprehensive set of experiments as recommended by current validation standards and guidelines. The results show that the system is capable to quantify DNA from different types of samples and calculate the parameters such degradation index, IPCCT shift, male:female ratio, autosomal and male dilutions for downstream applications.

HiMedia’s Insta Q96® AG 6.0 Real-Time PCR System, integrated with the HiGenoMB® Forensic-ID DNA Quantification Software, provides a technically advanced, flexible, and reliable platform for forensic DNA quantification. Its strong analytical performance, sensitivity, and compatibility with forensic validation standards underscore its suitability for routine casework and high-throughput laboratory environments.

Authors

• Dr. Arunagiri Subramanian - Molecular Biology, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Ms. Sukhada Kanse - Molecular Biology, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Mr. Sainath Islavath - Digital Transformation, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Ms. Radha Hariharan - Molecular Biology, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Ms. Priya Gatkal - Molecular Biology Instrumentation, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Ms. Sheetal Warke - Digital Transformation, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Dr. Kavita Khadke - Molecular Biology, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India
• Dr. Rajas Warke - Molecular Biology, HiMedia Laboratories Private Limited, Thane, Maharashtra, India