FSI - RFT for the Supply of Reference DNA Sampling Kits for the collection of Database Samples

Tender description

Supply of Reference DNA sampling kits for the collection of buccal cells. Forensic Science Ireland of the Department of Justice and Equality are inviting tenders from suitably qualified providers for the supply of treated paper reference DNA sampling kits for the collection of database samples. The kits must be suitable for punching on a BSD 600 punching unit, for follow on direct amplification in 96 well plate format and analysis on a 3500XL genetic analyser. Forensic Science Ireland became the custodian of the national DNA database in November 2015 and all DNA database reference samples are currently collected on FTA cards. There is a semi-automated process in place for the generation of all reference DNA profiles for the national DNA Database System from buccal cells on FTA card format. This process involves the sampling of 1.2 mm punches from indicating FTA cards into 96 well PCR plates using a BSD punching unit. The 1.2 mm punches are punched directly into human identity PCR master-mix, which has been added to a 96 well PCR plate using a liquid handler (Qiagility). Following amplification these samples are analysed on a 3500XL genetic analyser.