Biochemistry Section

Biochemistry is the section of the laboratory that performs DNA analysis on biological evidence to determine the identity of the donor of the evidence is in question. All of the DNA analyses performed in the section are PCR- based (cloning) and performed in accordance with the guidelines recommended by the National DNA Advisory Board, The Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods, and the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors- Laboratory Accreditation Board.

The Biochemistry section uses the following nationally validated testing kits manufactured by Promega Corporation and ReliaGene Technologies, Inc. to perform its PCR-based DNA analysis:

DNA Analysis Gel Image
Powerplex 16 – Promega Corporation
Y-Plex 6 – ReliaGene Technologies, Inc.

The Powerplex 16 kit allows the simultaneous testing of 16 areas of an individual’s DNA at one time. The Y plex 6 kit allows the analyst to see areas of DNA located on the Y chromosome, which only a male possesses. Currently, the ABI 377 Gene Sequencer is used to analyze the DNA extracted from evidentiary and reference samples.

The Biochemistry section manages the CODIS program for the State of West Virginia. CODIS is the Convicted Offender DNA Identification System. All individuals convicted of violent crimes, sex offenses and most felonies in the State of West Virginia are required to provide the State Police with a DNA sample for analysis. After analysis the DNA profile of the convicted offender is entered into a national database managed by the FBI. DNA profiles developed from evidence are compared to the convicted offender database and to the forensic unknown database. If a hit or match occurs as a result of a database search, laboratory personnel would review the match to determine what additional action was required. If appropriate, the investigating agency would then be contacted with the name of the convicted offender whose profile matched the evidence or contact information of investigators who may be working on a related case.

Educational Requirements: A Master of Science in a related field. BACK