Processing challenging forensic casework samples with new protocols for the QIAsymphony SP/AS

Abstract Novel extraction protocols for the QIAsymphony SP improve DNA yields from forensic casework samples. The Investigator Advanced protocol has a longer heating step that enhances DNA binding to magnetic particles, while the High Efficiency protocol reduces the loss of purified DNA from low elution volumes. In addition, the latest version of the QIAsymphony AS software enables STR PCR setup normalization based on imported quantification data.