Digital PCR (dPCR) is an analytical technique that enables the highly accurate quantification of specific DNA sequences by directly counting individual DNA molecules. Unlike traditional quantitative PCR (qPCR), dPCR does not require a standard curve, offering absolute, rather than relative quantification, enhancing both precision and reliability. Current qPCR-based methods are routinely used in forensic workflows to answer key questions about a recovered DNA sample, most often relating to how much human autosomal DNA it contains. 

dPCR provides several advantages over qPCR, making this technology highly applicable to a range of different forensic challenges. The data presented here details initial work on two assays that have been developed against targets across a range of investigative areas. Firstly, an assay targeting RNA markers that show differential expression in various body fluids – providing an alternative method to determine which body fluid a DNA sample has been obtained from. Secondly, a mitochondrial DNA assay that provides both an indication of DNA quality and accurate quantification of genome copy number within compromised DNA samples. 

Overall, these examples highlight the broad applicability and potential utility that dPCR technology has across multiple forensic disciplines.