Human Microsatellite DNA: Population Genetics and Forensic Application

 

Kuei-Chiu Chen

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2011, Volume 32

Abstract

As forensic DNA lab topics have become popular in high schools, colleges and universities, offering a professional- level forensic DNA lab still faces technical and financial challenges. In this study we attempt to overcome these issues in order to teach students concepts and techniques in molecular biology, population genetics, and mathematics typically encountered in a professional forensic DNA laboratory. Consented students extract their DNA and amplify ten of the 13 FBI designated microsatellite markers from its Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and the amelogenin locus for sex determination. The CODIS microsatellite, commonly referred to as short tandem repeats (STRs) in the forensic community, are DNA sequences comprised of tetra-nucleotide repeat units and are located at various sites on human chromosomes. These loci are amplified via a multiplex PCR system with all 11 loci amplified simultaneously in one reaction. The fragment sizes of PCR products are determined by DNA Analyzer 3730 (Applied Biosystems, Inc.) and the results are analyzed with Peak Scanner v.1.0 (Applied Biosystems, Inc., free download).

Keywords:  forensics

Dalhousie University (2010)