Parentage Testing I: Scientific SIG
Program Code: 108-TC
Saturday, October 23, 2004
10:30 AM to 12:00 PM (ET)

SPEAKERS
Robert W. Allen, PhD, Center for Health Sciences, Oklahoma State Univ.
George Maha, JD, PhD, MT(ASCP), Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings
Cheryl Conley, PhD, Orchid GeneScreen
Mary Mount, MT(ASCP), Memorial Blood Center
Rick W. Staub, PhD, Orchard Cellmark/GeneScreen
Michael Baird, PhD, DNA Diagnostics Center

DESCRIPTION
This session is intended to provide information about AABB parentage testing standards and anticipated changes in the 7th edition of AABB Standards for Parentage Testing Laboratories. In addition, the data from the 2003 Annual Report, which is a composite of the 44 AABB-accredited laboratories, will be presented. This report describes current testing methodology, mutation frequencies, and practices involving laboratory handling of double/triple mutations, minimum combined paternity indices in trio testing, non-maternal, and family reconstructions. Finally, the speakers will describe validation as it relates to all aspects of paternity testing including platform validation, equipment/computer validation, and training/assessment for new test methodologies. In addition, there will be a discussion about how CAP may provide validation panels for labs intending to implement new test batteries.

OBJECTIVES

• Discuss potential changes to AABB Standards for Parentage Testing Laboratories, 7th edition
• Review Parentage Testing 2003 Annual Report
• Discuss all aspects of validation and how it should be assessed
• Discuss the potential for CAP involvement in validation of new methodologies

AUDIENCE
Scientists, Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

PROGRAM LEVEL
Intermediate