Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) combines traditional genealogy research with genetic information to determine relationships and identify a person of interest in a forensic investigation. Though often considered a cold case technique, FIGG is useful in generating additional leads in any case where traditional DNA methods have not yielded a hit. But without the right lab partner, these valuable leads stay hidden, and cases can go cold.
DNA Labs International is the only private forensic laboratory offering a full suite of innovative technologies for FIGG analysis in-house, from whole genome sequencing, targeted sequencing, and SNP array. Combined with our proprietary method of triaging for downstream SNP analysis, our DLI bioinformatics pipeline, and our experienced team of genealogists, DNA Labs International has the best technology for all your FIGG cases.
There are many ways to perform FIGG but not all methods are best for your case. DNA Labs International is the only laboratory to provide SNP triage, a comprehensive analysis used to recommend the best downstream SNP testing technology for each sample. Comprised of a holistic evaluation of key factors such as DNA quantity and quality, bacterial contamination, and shallow sequencing, we use the results from SNP triage to determine the best method of SNP analysis that can provide actionable hits and the best chance of success for your evidence.
There are three main ways to perform SNP analysis for FIGG: Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), ForenSeq Kintelligence, and SNP array. Which method is used should be determined by the evidence, not limited by the capabilities of the lab. DNA Labs International is the only laboratory to have all three in-house, giving your cases the best chance of success. We follow ANAB and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards for forensic testing, ensuring your FIGG results can be used in court.
Whole Genome Sequencing
WGS is the most powerful method of generating a SNP profile for FIGG. It is best suited for challenging sample types and typically produces the most distant genetic associations. We use the most sensitive industry assay available, designed for generating profiles from ancient DNA, and can even analyze mixtures with this powerful approach.
ForenSeq Kintelligence
ForenSeq Kintelligence is the most effective method for generating investigative leads for highly contaminated or degraded samples. We have successfully retrieved leads from samples with a degradation index in excess of 1000.
SNP Array
The whole genome SNP array is the original method of generating a SNP profile for FIGG testing. It is the most cost-effective option for high-quality, single-source samples and is ideal for target or reference testing. DNA Labs International offers in-house reference testing at low cost for security and convenience.
The DLI bioinformatics pipeline for FIGG analysis consistently produces better results for SNP data. Where other pipelines may result in insufficient data, “matchy” kits, or profiles that cannot be uploaded to public ancestry databases, the DLI bioinformatics pipeline is custom-built by renowned bioinformaticians in-house and continues to be optimized for the most challenging forensic samples to ensure high-quality results.
Once the SNP profile is produced and initial analysis is complete, our team of professional genealogists will upload the data to the approved databases and perform genealogy research. DNA Labs International has been growing our international genealogy team since 2018 to include a diverse set of skills and specialties, making them uniquely qualified to research genetic associations amongst challenging populations. Whether you need genealogy research on its own or in addition to advanced SNP testing, our experts work strategically to uncover meaningful investigative leads and build family trees that can help solve your cases faster and more effectively.
We’re ready to help with any of your FIGG needs. Contact us today for a free case review.
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