Legislative and Policy Implications for the use of Rapid DNA Technology in the Australian Context

Abstract

Recent advancements in DNA analysis have seen the emergence of Rapid DNA technology. This technology effectively combines the laboratory analytical processes involved in DNA analysis into one step: sample in to result out. This is achieved in a much shorter timeframe than standard DNA analysis; typically in about 1.5 hr. Rapid DNA technology has the potential to be used outside of the laboratory environment and, in some cases, be truly portable.There are numerous legislative and policy considerations by management for the implementation of this type of technology. This will include implications, applications, and limitations of these types of instruments, including validation and policy issues, legal questions, integration to databases, and accreditation requirements.