Bioanalysis

Forensic DNA analysis

Forensic DNA analysis has become an important tool in the investigation of crime. It can be used to connect a suspect to a crime scene as well as to exonerate innocent persons. Any human tissue type found on any material can be used as evidence. With samples that are heterogeneous and often impure, the analysis is a challenge. The research at Applied Microbiology is aimed at improving the limit of detection for biological crime scene stain analysis, through enhanced sampling, DNA extraction and PCR. The research includes investigating the mechanisms of PCR inhibitors, optimising the inhibitor-tolerance of DNA polymerase-buffer systems in PCR, and mathematical modelling of multiplex PCR. The Swedish National Forensic Centre (NFC), Linköping, is a close research partner since 2007. Since 2011, the collaboration also includes National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA.

Affiliated researchers

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Johannes Hedman

Diagnostic PCR

Implementation of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology as a rapid microbiological detection method for effective control measures in primary production and further processing requires knowledge about the identity of PCR inhibitors, the mechanism of PCR inhibition, pre-PCR processing and how to quantify microorganisms in biological samples with real-time PCR. The concept of integrating sampling, sample treatment and the chemistry of PCR, i.e. pre-PCR processing, is addressed as a general approach to overcoming real-time PCR inhibition and producing samples optimal for PCR analysis. The goal of this research program is to improve and facilitate the implementation of PCR-based diagnostics in clinical diagnostics, food analysis and forensic analysis.

Affiliated researchers

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Flow cytometry analysis

Flow cytometry has emerged as a transformative tool in industrial microbiology, particularly for strain development and process optimization. This advanced technology enables rapid and precise analysis of cell populations, facilitating the identification and selection of desirable traits in both pure cultures and synthetic co-cultures. However, population heterogeneity in biomanufacturing remains a significant challenge, often leading to reduced process robustness and efficiency. Our research is dedicated to develop methods to integrate biosensors with flow cytometry for advanced strain development. Additionally, we are developing automated flow cytometry systems that provide continuous, at-line data collection, significantly enhancing real-time monitoring and control. By focusing on understanding and managing population dynamics, we aim to improve the reliability and efficiency of biomanufacturing processes, ensuring more consistent and high-quality outputs.