The evaluation of in-field whole genome sequencing using the minION™ nanopore sequencer for forensic DNA applications

In-field whole genome sequencing has been made possible by the introduction of the MinION™ DNA sequencer by Oxford Nanopore Technologies. Current forensic DNA analysis requires samples to be sent to a dedicated lab offsite. Depending on the location this process can take time. The evaluation of alternatives such as field sequencing using the MinION™, with the possibility of providing access to results in a shorter time with lower costs, should be researched and validated. The potential applications of the MinION™ in forensic scenarios have not been studied partly due to the recent release of the product. This study focused on evaluating the utility of the MinION™ for shotgun sequencing of forensically relevant samples without targeted amplification.