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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Interpreting Mixtures (cont.)

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Current DNA technologies are sensitive and can detect DNA in minute amounts. Most DNA analysis systems are also able to estimate the relative quantity of each profile contributing to the DNA mixture. Laboratory reports may classify certain profiles as belonging to a major contributor and/or a minor contributor. When more than one profile is detected in a sample, laboratories may differ in how this information is reported.

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