VALIDATION OF THE OHIO ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CENTER FOR THE FUTURE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE AUTOMATE EXPRESS™ ROBOT

The discovery of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extraction by Friedrich Miescher was pivotal for the scientific community as new research, technology, and methodology were developed as a result. As more information was discovered about DNA, these developments became more specialized within different fields. Alec Jeffreys and his colleagues transformed the field of Forensic Science by utilizing the Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) method and the Southern blotting technique to develop discriminating profiles using an organic extraction. Solid-phase extractions widened the range of abilities for DNA extraction as well as provided a method for automation in forensic laboratories. One instrument, the AutoMate™ Express robot, performs solid-phase DNA extractions with greater efficiency than manual methods. This validation of the AutoMate™ Express instrument adheres to the Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) developed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to maintain accuracy of methodology as well as uphold accreditation standards. Results of the validation found that the AutoMate™ Express instrument is a reliable, efficient method that is well suited for daily laboratory use. Use of the AutoMate™ Express instrument would provide analysts with faster extraction of samples, as well as lower possibilities of contamination. Overall, the AutoMate™ Express instrument proves to be a practical option for use in conjunction with daily laboratory work