In recent years, courts around the world are increasingly resorting to Forensic DNA tests in their criminal proceedings. These powerful identification tools have become one of the most frequently used methods to solve certain types of criminal cases including theft, rape, kidnapping and murder, and for the identification of human remains. The tests are also commonly employed by private investigators and individuals, for example to match a biological sample to the person from whom it originated.

Synergene offers a wide range of testing services for the purposes of forensics and investigation. These include Screening Services for Evidence Material, Expert Witness Testimony, Relationship Verification Tests, Y-Chromosome Tests and Mitochondrial DNA Tests.

Evidence Material Screening Services

Biochemical and DNA-based tests performed on evidence material can assist in incriminating or exonerating suspects and accused individuals. Synergene offers a range of services for the analysis of scene-of-crime and other incriminating material:

• Presumptive Testing: This gives an indication of the nature and location of various body fluids. Synergene employs biochemical tests to locate body fluid stains on various materials and identify whether they contain blood, semen or saliva.



• DNA Extraction from Various Media: Synergene can extract DNA from various media including difficult scene-of-crime samples. View our Table of Sample Types for a list of materials that can be used for DNA extraction.



• DNA Profiles: These are derived from extracted DNA and allow the unique identification of an individual. A match between the DNA profiles from a suspect and evidence material represents strong incriminating evidence, whereas unmatching profiles represent proof that the evidence material did not originate from the suspect.

Expert Witness Testimony

Synergene provides a range of advisory services for cases involving DNA evidence, including expert witness services in criminal cases. For more information, please contact us directly on spl@synergene.net.

Relationship Verification Tests

Synergene's range of tests for DNA relationship testing can be employed for forensic and investigative applications. More information can be found in the Relationship Testing Section.

Y-Chromosome and Mitochondrial DNA Testing

Y-Chromosome testing is used to distinguish the male sample from mixed samples and is often employed in sexual assault cases. Mitochondrial DNA testing is frequently employed in cases were DNA sample concentration is very low or degraded. For these samples Mitochondrial DNA sequencing is the preferred methodology due to a higher success rate.

At Synergene all samples are analysed in our state-of-the-art laboratory using the latest equipment and identification techniques. We are experienced in DNA identification and in extraction methodologies for various materials, including semen, saliva, hair, blood stained fabric, swab and tissues. Synergene maintains a strict chain of custody and a single point of responsibility throughout the identification process. A qualified expert witness is available for purposes of testimony.

The cost of a forensic test depends on the testing strategy and the number of samples involved. Synergene will discuss the requirements of the test with the customer before calculating and quoting the cost and the anticipated turn around time. We accept payments by credit card or direct bank transfer.

For further information please call Synergene at (+356) 21490888, or e-mail us at spl@synergene.net.