FORENSIC GENETICS SECTION
The Forensic Genetics Section has been operating since 2004 and is part of the Medical Genetics Laboratory Unit (UOC Laboratorio di Genetica Medica) at San Camillo Forlanini Hospital. The services provided are available to private clients and external consultants.
The laboratory performs analyses using advanced molecular genetics techniques. Depending on the case, the results are used for the following purposes:
- Direct and indirect kinship testing (paternity, maternity, sibling relationship and consanguinity testing)
- Assessment of genetic compatibility between samples obtained from histopathological investigations and the patient
- Zygosity testing in twins
ANALYSES PERFORMED AT THE LABORATORY
- Autosomal microsatellite DNA analysis
- X-chromosome microsatellite DNA analysis
- Y-chromosome microsatellite DNA analysis
- Biostatistical analysis in direct and indirect kinship testing
The laboratory also provides expert advice on the biostatistical interpretation of results obtained from analyses performed at other facilities.
For kinship tests requested by private individuals, each investigation is preceded and followed by a forensic genetics consultation, during which clients are informed of the implications of the test and the results are explained to them.
The laboratory conducts research into the application of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies for identification purposes and collaborates with international research groups to study population allele frequencies.
The facility is also included in the hospital's internal procedure, established pursuant to the 2016 Stability Law, to ensure the collection and chain of custody of biological evidence in cases of gender-based violence and violence against minors.
EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES
The instruments, reagents and software used in the Section are specifically dedicated to forensic applications, and the work areas are organised in accordance with the latest international guidelines.
The laboratory consists of electronically access-controlled rooms that are physically separated and specifically designated for each stage of the analytical process:
- Preliminary examination of evidence and photographic documentation
- DNA extraction and pre-amplification processing
- Post-amplification processing
- Data processing and biostatistical analysis
STAFF
- Head of Section: Dr Francesco Binni (forensic geneticist, Test Supervisor)
- Head of Quality Management: Dr Lorenza Fenici
- Authorised personnel: Dr Michele Ragazzo and Dr Giorgia Dal Borgo (forensic geneticists)
INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENTS
Secretariat: Tel. +39 06 58703210
Email: