Validation of high throughput sequencing and microbial forensics applications

Area of Science:

• Microbial Forensics
• Genomics
• Biosecurity

Background:

• High throughput sequencing (HTS) generates extensive, high-quality data for microbial genomics.
• HTS accelerates evidence collection and characterization in microbial forensics, aiding biocrime and bioterrorism investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present criteria for validating High throughput sequencing (HTS) systems in microbial forensics.
• To establish guiding principles for HTS method validation to ensure accurate and credible results.

Main Methods:

• The study outlines validation criteria for HTS, focusing on sample preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
• It emphasizes defining HTS utility within established operating conditions and tolerances.

Main Results:

• Validation criteria are presented for HTS application in microbial forensics.
• The criteria provide a foundation for establishing and implementing HTS tools.

Conclusions:

• Validated HTS methods are essential for reliable microbial forensics, supporting investigative leads and attribution.
• Implementing validated HTS enhances public safety and national security by providing powerful tools for biocrime investigations.