LIMS and DNA Analysis in the Forensics Laboratory

Laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are valuable tools in the forensics laboratory, streamlining the documentation and management of evidence including sample accession, extraction, quantification, amplification and analysis. LIMS solutions can provide out-of-the-box functionality that can be configured to meet the needs of the laboratory, aiding in data input, sample documentation and quality control. When samples and results are managed within a LIMS, the forensics laboratory can achieve better productivity, accuracy and compliance.

DNA analysis and sample management

In the past 25 years, forensics DNA analysis has become essential in crime scene analysis and for comparing biological evidence with offender profiles in DNA databases.

With the increasing use of its analysis in forensics laboratories worldwide, efficient management of the DNA caseload is critical to ensure accurate reporting and to help alleviate backlogs. However, the sheer volume of DNA samples can overwhelm a forensics laboratory. The right LIMS can effectively manage DNA analysis data derived from multiple amplification methods and platforms.

The forensics laboratory manager needs to evaluate the LIMS for its ability to manage information, including important features and benefits that are listed below.

Information retrieval

A LIMS retrieves sample information and generates a DNA worksheet for all steps in the DNA analysis process: preparation, extraction, quantification, amplification and analysis. This worksheet should provide ongoing workflow information with configurable columns, with an option to print documentation at each step if a hard copy is required. Since not all DNA samples will follow the same process path, users need to be able to indicate different step choices for each sample. The LIMS should produce a load list for equipment and pull instrument-generated information (i.e., quantitative or analysis data) back into the LIMS, thus reducing the amount of data that needs to be input manually.

Other factors to consider are:

  • Does the LIMS provide a configurable master mix and quantitation calculations on the worksheets that can be added for any step in the DNA workflow? The system should offer guidance on concentrating, diluting or amplifying the sample by conducting calculations based on the laboratory’s protocol. Options should be included to configure the master mix calculations with correction factors to account for enough reagent volume should there be additional samples.
  • Does the LIMS have a defendable chain-of-custody for reagents and samples? When laboratories receive reagent shipments, inventory records can be created with specific lot numbers and expiration dates recorded. The system should record lot numbers and expiration dates for all reagents on all worksheets. Barcodes can be printed for each reagent, plate, tube and item to track the chain-of-custody to include the work product.

Recording and password protection

The system should have robust recording features. Interaction with the LIMS should start with the user logging in with a user name and password or other biometric identification. Tight controls should be placed on fields that are allowed to be edited, with a strict audit trail to track changes. All chain-of-custody transactions will require authentication when person-to-person transfers are conducted. Transfers to and from secure locations will also require authentication and the LIMS will verify that the users have access to those specific locations.

Batching of multiple cases

Once a sample has been submitted to the DNA workflow, the LIMS should have the ability to batch samples across different cases, analysts, etc. Who performs the various steps in the workflow and enters data must be precisely tracked.

Sample traceability

Samples should have a unique identifier in order to be tracked with a barcode throughout the system. Of particular importance in DNA is to know the sample genealogy, i.e., which plate, rack or instrument the sample has come in contact with. All quality controls and reagents should be traceable as well. Electronic signatures should be captured from users who witness various steps. Procedures that require a witness should be configurable by the laboratory.

Integration with DNA testing instruments

A LIMS should be able to exchange information with multiple DNA instruments. Through a network connection or manual file transfer, a load list should be produced for the designated instrument, and the results file created by the instrument should be imported back to the LIMS. This saves time and reduces transcription errors, which provides for a higher level of quality without sacrificing throughput.

Report writing

Once the DNA workflow has been completed for a sample and the profile has been confirmed, the LIMS should automatically trigger an alert to the examiner that a report can be written; results from the analysis or resulting profile can be included. The STARLIMS software platform (licensed by Abbott Informatics, Hollywood, Fla.) uses Microsoft Word as the report-writing tool for its ease of formatting and spell-checking. Data can be automatically populated to save time and decrease the possibility of errors. The report template can be configured to display the author’s electronic signature as well. Upon completion, the LIMS should facilitate electronic routing of the report through the prescribed review process. It should be made clear that the report is in draft status until the last review has been completed.

Remote access

Mobile device applications can increase functionality by enabling users to work on the right screen for the task with an expanded platform to access LIMS information anywhere. Likewise, laboratories can utilize mobile devices to access the LIMS data and expedite decision-making.

Analytics

Data-mining capabilities are an important feature of a LIMS. For example, laboratories can use the advanced analytics technology of the STARLIMS software to turn data into actionable and predictive knowledge to make informed decisions. This technology can also be an effective problem-solving tool to map out processes and find and correct workflow bottlenecks to improve productivity and response times. The user can click on different parts of charts, graphs and maps to search for root causes.

Cloud computing

More and more laboratories are exploring the potential of cloud computing to enhance the versatility and productivity of their LIMS software. Cloud services are in high demand due to their potential to reduce hardware/software purchases and eliminate the need to reconfigure existing system infrastructure. The cloud can significantly reduce the time required to begin a project and save resources otherwise used for hardware purchases or IT support staff.

Data security is the leading concern for laboratories considering a cloud-based system. To provide optimal data protection, Abbott Informatics’ STARLIMS Cloud Services, for example, encrypt data in transit and at rest to ensure that all data are safe and secure. The data are stored in a secure, cloud-based infrastructure and delivered, managed and accessed via the STARLIMS software application. The cloud services team manages cloud infrastructure application performance. Forensics laboratory users can choose to work in a public cloud option for their LIMS directly via the Internet, or access the LIMS as an extension of an internal network via a private secure connection such as IPSec or MPLS.

Conclusion

Laboratory information management systems can play an important role in helping DNA analysts work more efficiently by streamlining evidence documentation and management. LIMS can help the forensics laboratory address all stages of DNA evidence data management as well as other aspects of forensics investigation.

Robin Gall, Ph.D., is senior product manager, Forensics, Abbott. Abbott’s Informatics business is based in Hollywood, Fla., U.S.A.;www.starlims.com.

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