Laser microdissection: Checking that the dissected cells are recovered for DNA extraction

Tests were performed to check if the dissected cells are affectively retrieved into the collection tubes, if cross contamination could occur if cells were collected from multiple slides containing cells of differing origin, and if the work environment surfaces contained any DNA that may cause a contamination risk. A less than ideal laboratory environment, sampling different cells from multiple slides, and inadequate cleaning procedures may negatively affect cell collection and/or increase contamination risk. Recommendations are made to assist in limiting the risk of contamination while using laser microdissection to collect cells for forensic DNA profiling.