Paleo-DNA Laboratory Homepage

Quick Turn-Around Forensic DNA Identification Using ‘Castoff  Evidence’

When a crime is committed, DNA evidence is collected, and a DNA profile is generated from the evidence.  The investigation may lead to multiple suspects belonging to that particular DNA profile.   Currently law enforcement sends their castoff samples to a lab for analysis with a very long turn-around time for results (6 weeks to three months or longer).  This delay will cost law enforcement time and money in surveillance until DNA results are known.  Let us save you money!

The Paleo-DNA Laboratory (PDL) is offering a three day turn-around time on these samples to help investigators determine whether their suspect of interest is indeed the right person. This service will save investigators time and money.  Once they are sure of their suspect they can then gather additional DNA evidence through proper procedures and submit it to their respective DNA laboratories for analysis.

  • 2-3 day turnaround:  extraction of DNA, quantification of DNA, and analysis
  • The PDL cannot guarantee results because each sample will have different amounts of DNA present.  Some samples may not have enough to get a profile.  This is a reality.
  • Types of samples we can analyze (also known as ‘Castoff’):  cigarette butts, paper cups, chewing gum, pulled hair with root, anything that may contain biological material.
    • When following or tailing suspects, ‘castoff’ is something the suspect throws away but may contain their DNA.
  • Volume discounts are available, please inquire toll free 1-866-362-5227.

 

WE DO MITOCHONDRIAL DNA ANALYSIS

  • Mitochondrial DNA analysis is an excellent tool for exclusionary purposes.
  • Mitochondrial DNA adds strength to a case for inclusions or matches.
  • Mitochondrial DNA testing is the next best tool when nuclear DNA testing is not viable.
  • Mitochondrial DNA can be used when ‘not enough’ nuclear DNA is present for testing.

All protocols developed at the Paleo-DNA Laboratory have been extensively used on modern, ancient, and degraded DNA samples, therefore, demonstrating their reliability and versatility.

 

We specialize in difficult and Low Copy Number DNA (LCN DNA) samples:

  • Skeletal (bone, teeth)
  • Hair (shaft or root)
  • Residue
  • Limited source DNA samples (ie: chewing gum, cigarettes)

We have no minimum requirement for our low copy number DNA analysis. We can obtain full or partial profiles.

 

WE DO Y-CHROMOSOME ANALYSIS

  • Y-chromosome analysis is an excellent tool for exclusionary purposes.
  • Y-chromosome analysis adds strength to a case for inclusions or matches.
  • Multiple male sources can be detected in mixed samples.
  • A Y-chromosome profile can be obtained from a male-female mixture.
  • The presence of a male individual can be detected.

Our analysis offers the identification of 17 different loci on the Y-chromosome. For low copy number samples we can obtain full or partial profiles.

 

Our Laboratory Offers:

  • Professional accredited forensic analysis
  • mtDNA and nuclear DNA analysis
  • Highly degraded and difficult biological sample (LCN DNA) analysis
  • Expert testimony and opinions

Accredited

We provide Standards Council of Canada CAN-P-4D and CAN-P-1578 forensic biology/DNA human identification services for mitochondrial DNA, STR, and Y-STR samples in our ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.

 

Accurate

Our experienced scientists use the latest technology and forensic-endorsed equipment. We do not automate any portion of our analytical methods.

 

Reliable

We are recognized as a world leader in human identification using DNA testing on highly degraded samples.

Physicians, lawyers, police forces, and government organizations such as the United Nations, the Canadian Armed Forces, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have used our forensic services.

 

Large Capacity for Case Backlogs

We have the capacity to handle an extremely large number of samples to eliminate cold case backlogs as well as process large or small projects.

 

Fast

The processing time for each case is generally 4 weeks after receipt of all samples. Additionally we offer rush service for an extra fee.

   

Download the Forensic Testing Brochure


Download Forensic Brochure

 

Contact Us:

paleodna@lakeheadu.ca
www.ancientdna.com