Databases, quality control and interpretation of DNA profiling in the Home Office Forensic Science Service

The history of DNA profiling in the Home Office Forensic Science Service began with the introduction of multilocus probes into casework in 1986. The use of singlelocus probes was introduced in 1990, supported by databases of three ethnic groups; interpretation is backed up using a Bayesian approach. Databases were compiled using an image analysis computing system. Quality control systems are described, detailing requirements before a sample can be included in the database.