Any of the samples detailed below can be submitted for analysis
Standard Reference Sample
Refrigerated for less that 1 month in a preservative (EDTA or Heparin)
Blood stain on collection card
Typically on FTA or S&S paper
Stored frozen, or collected within 5 days and refrigerated. Note semen from vasectomised males may not work.
Must be forcibly removed hair with visible root sheath
Semen stains on clothing or vaginal swab
Success rate depends on the size of the stain and the number of sperm present. Note semen from vasectomised males is unlikely to work.
Success rate depends on size, age and environmental exposure of stain (sunlight is very damaging)
Success rate will decrease if not stored properly (stored at room temperature for more than 2 days)
Note: semen from vasectomised males is unlikely to work
Success rated depends on size of stain and storage conditions of sample (store stains in a cool dry place) and nature of absorbent material
Highly sugary gum has lowest success rate.
DNA recovery varies between individuals
DNA recovery varies between individuals and success rate may also be dependent upon age. Note: possibility that water is used to seal these items (self-sealing) - DNA recovery will not be possible
Stored refrigerated, not frozen for less than 5 days. Success rate will decrease if urine is stored at room temperature for more than 1 day.
Success rate depends on age and collection. Prefer deep muscle tissue or marrow from long bones. If the sample is very aged, the mtDNA may be advised.
Nasal discharge on tissue
May have a higher success rate if person is sick or blood is present
Formalin fixation in these samples causes DNA cross-linking and successful extraction can be compromised
Shed hair contains very little DNA and mtDNA testing may be advised
Coagulated and stored at room temperature
DNA is extremely degraded in faecal samples. MtDNA testing may be advised
