miniPCR® Electrophoresis Forensics Lab: Wrongfully Convicted?

J.M. was convicted of attempted homicide and is currently serving a life sentence.

J.M. has always maintained his innocence, and after years of appeals, the court has approved his request for DNA analysis of the evidence from his case. In this lab students will use gel electrophoresis to examine newly collected DNA evidence from J.M.’s case. Will the DNA evidence prove that J.M. was wrongly convicted, or will it only implicate him further? This lab demonstrates the power that DNA analysis brings to forensic investigations. An optional extension allows students to explore population genetics and the statistical analysis forensic scientists use to evaluate the strength of DNA evidence.

Reagents and consumables supplied by user:
- Agarose (electrophoresis grade)
- DNA stain (e.g., GelGreen™)
- Gel electrophoresis buffer (e.g., 1X TBE)
- Distilled or deionized H₂O (to dilute buffer concentrate – not included in Lab Companion Kit)
- Microtubes

Required equipment:
- Micropipettes and tips
- Gel electrophoresis and fluorescence visualization system

Storage notes:
- Reagents require freezer storage
- Reagents are stable for 12 months when stored in the freezer