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Fast and effective DNA analysis

Bytes Systems Integration offers the first fully automated sample-to-answer system for STR-based human identification, the RapidHIT 200 System. Designed by IntegenX, the system is a mobile, self-contained and automated human identification laboratory requiring only three minutes on hands-on to generate five DNA profiles as well as positive and negative controls.

The RapidHIT 200 System produces standardised DNA profiles from buccal swabs and other human samples. It uses gold standard sample extraction, PCR and CE technologies. The system is entirely portable and is designed to withstand travel by aeroplane, truck and helicopter and therefore fits into any forensic workflow.

The solution has, during testing both by IntegenX and three other external organisations, been found to deliver 100% concordance with regular DNA analysis performed in a lab. What really sets this solution apart, however, is that a user can be trained to operate the RapidHIT 200 System with as little as 30 minutes of training.

With the recent announcement that the National Assembly has passed the criminal law (forensic procedures) amendment bill, generally referred to as the DNA bill, it is now one step closer to being signed into law. This news means that the need for an effective DNA profiling solution is becoming more urgent.

Once this bill becomes an act, DNA evidence collected by police investigating a crime scene will be required to be loaded onto a database under the crime scene index. By providing a completely portable, easy-to-use solution that reduces the process of DNA analysis from weeks to hours, Bytes can assist the SAPS to run a DNA analysis, at the scene of the crime, without the need for a forensic specialist to be present.

For more information, contact Bytes Systems Integration, +27 (0)21 680 9135, nick.perkins@bytes.co.za

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