Lab-on-a-chip technology

The techniques and laboratory processes involved in the production of DNA profiles for forensic applications are well developed, robust, and reliable. Unfortunately, they can now also be considered too slow and expensive to be able to match the ever-increasing demands placed upon them. The most rapid DNA profiling instrumentation in current usage are capillary electrophoresis (CE) systems. CE systems have greatly enhanced visualization and analysis throughput, but are still unable to keep up with current demand. However, developments in nanobiotechnology are allowing for the production of miniature systems to decrease the time and costs involved in profile production.