What We Do
Photograph taken by Chip Clark from the Smithsonian Institution.
What We Do
Mitotyping Technologies is very single-minded, focusing exclusively on the analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) for forensic and anthropological applications.
When forensic cases arise where there is insufficient biological material for nuclear DNA typing, mitochondrial DNA analysis can provide valuable supplemental information, even from such limited samples as 2mm long hair fragments or single teeth. Because of its usefulness when limited biological material is available, and due to its unique pattern of maternal inheritance, mtDNA is playing a significant role in investigation and prosecution of active criminal cases, post-conviction exoneration, re-examination of cold cases, genealogical studies where maternal relatedness is in question, and missing persons investigations.
Mitotyping Technologies has extensive experience with the most difficult samples often encountered in DNA testing, such as naturally shed hairs with telogen roots, hair shafts, and aged or burned skeletal material. We also offer lab services of an “ancient DNA analysis” for the most challenging samples where the mtDNA is degraded. We process each sample in our care individually from the start to the conclusion of the analysis. This gives us the opportunity to deal with the specific handling requirements of each sample, especially if it is degraded or minimal. We will never batch your hairs, which provides an extremely high level of protection against cross-contamination and sample switching, unlike other high-volume laboratories.
Because mitochondrial DNA analysis is our special strength, we are focused on addressing current issues in the field such as contamination, heteroplasmy, and population genetics. We also have extensive experience in the courtroom in both admissibility hearings and trials.
Photograph above taken by Chip Clark from the Smithsonian Institution.
Gel PhotoDoc-it image. System used to quantify the presence of amplified DNA.
Our Mission
The Mitotyping Mission Statement
The core mission of Mitotyping Technologies is to use our scientific knowledge, training, and experience to help families and individuals resolve questions of identity and to support the criminal justice system in its search for the truth through the use of forensic DNA typing methods.
This mission is based on four guiding goals or principles:
- Our service will be rendered with fairness and impartiality because of the availability of science-based knowledge.
- Our DNA testing will be of superior quality, with methods and interpretation based on current scientific knowledge and state-of-the-art practice.
- We will make a research contribution to the field of DNA forensics, no matter how small, on an ongoing basis
- We will educate our clients and the general public whenever possible about what we do.
Accreditation
Mitotyping has been an accredited laboratory since 2001.
We are currently accredited under ANAB AR 3125:2023 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 in the field of Forensic Testing. Historically we have been accredited under ASCLD/LAB.
Not every state requires certification or permitting, but we are permitted in the area of forensic identity by the New York State Department of Health and hold certifications for forensic testing in Texas and Maryland.
Security & Confidentiality
Laboratory Security
The company maintains high levels of security at all times while carrying out its mission of providing impartial forensic testing to law enforcement, the legal profession and its clients, and private individuals. Mitotyping provides a secure office suite for the analysis of forensic casework samples that includes 24 hour limited access and outside security monitoring.
Chain of Custody
All evidence samples and current casework laboratory documentation are locked in the evidence room. Evidence samples are stored in locked refrigerators and freezers in the evidence room. All samples remaining from completed case work, including remaining evidentiary material and DNA extraction products, will be returned to the requesting agency or individual at the conclusion of a case unless the client gives instructions to destroy any remaining samples. Dormant case files are locked in fire-resistant cabinets.
Our Policy on Visitors and Observers
Mitotyping Technologies does not allow any visitors to the facility while unaccompanied by an employee. Observation of testing will not be permitted unless special permission is obtained in advance. No visitors will be allowed in the laboratory area at any time whatsoever. All visitors are required to sign in and out on the Visitor’s Log.
Press Relations
Company policy on discussing active or past casework with individuals outside the company is as follows: cases will be discussed only with the individual who has submitted, and is paying for, the case. Other individuals must obtain permission from those submitting agencies or individuals to enter into any communication with Mitotyping Technologies. Company policy permits analysts, not technicians, to communicate casework information. Press or other inquiries will be dealt with by explaining the company policy above. Communication to the press about general informational topics is limited to the Technical Leader, Laboratory Director, and the owners of Actuated Medical, Inc.