ABSTRACT
Complex DNA profiles have been described as those DNA profiles that are mixtures of two or more contributors in which amplification artifacts, secondary transfer, and contamination are additional complications. This chapter aims to cover amplification artifacts, and discusses the different types of DNA profiles obtained from exhibits in a crime. The DNA profile obtained is useful only for comparison purposes. A reference DNA sample from a complainant, suspect, or other relevant person should produce a DNA profile that is of suitable quality and quantity to represent the DNA regions of the person investigated. The artifact of stutter is very often observed, including in reference DNA profiles of good quality and quantity. The number of contributors to a DNA profile requires a subjective interpretation by the analyst. Enhanced interrogation techniques enable a DNA profile to be obtained that is interpretable from minute amounts of DNA.
