Which of the following is a set of techniques commonly used in forensic biology labs?

• A. DNA sequencing, PCR, and serology
• B. DNA extraction and DNA sequencing
• C. DNA extraction, PCR, and serology
• D. Serology and fingerprint analysis

Answer: (C)

Forensic biology labs typically combine methods that recover and analyze biological material, identify what kind of material is present, and then profile it. The standard workflow starts with DNA extraction, which isolates genetic material from evidence. Once DNA is obtained, PCR is used to amplify specific regions, generating a DNA profile that can be compared to reference samples. Serology plays a complementary role by identifying the presence and type of biological fluids (such as blood, saliva, or semen), guiding interpretation and directing further testing. While DNA sequencing can be used in some cases, it isn’t as routinely part of the standard workflow as extraction and amplification. Fingerprint analysis belongs to a different domain focused on pattern evidence rather than biological material. So, the combination of DNA extraction, PCR, and serology reflects the common toolkit in forensic biology labs.