PCR Amplification for Forensic DNA Profiling

Forensic DNA analysis has been used since 1985 when minisatellites and Southern blotting were the technology of the day. In the early 1990s, short tandem repeats (STRs) were introduced as a new polymorphic DNA marker type and have since become the gold standard for human identification in DNA databases, criminal casework, paternity and kinship analyses, and identification of missing persons. Recent advances in designing large multiplex STR panels have greatly increased the power of discrimination to aid in inclusion and exclusion decisions in human identification applications. Regional requirements for specific markers vary but with ongoing international data sharing efforts, STR PCR amplification kits need maximum commonality in markers to make more cross-border identifications. Our PCR amplification kits are manufactured at our location in Warrington, UK—a facility that meets the guidelines for ISO 18385 certification.

GlobalFiler STR Kits combine reduced amplification time with maximum data recovery power. The 6-dye, 24-locus technology is designed to deliver superior lab performance. Both the GlobalFiler and GlobalFiler Express kits are approved for use by laboratories generating DNA profiles for inclusion in the US National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS database.

VeriFiler STR Kits offer superior genotyping results from single-source and challenging casework samples using a 25-marker STR multiplex assay that includes two gender determination markers, as well as the highly discriminatory Penta D and Penta E markers. VeriFiler Plus and VeriFiler Express kits are approved for use by laboratories generating DNA profiles for inclusion in the US National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS database.

The Applied Biosystems NGM family of kits delivers exceptional data quality and robustness along with powerful discrimination to support European cross-border data sharing initiatives. The NGM kits amplify all Applied Biosystems SGM Plus kit loci together with additional loci in the expanded European Standard Set as recommended by the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) and European DNA Profiling Group (EDNAP) (SE33, D2S1338, D3S1358, D8S1179, D16S539, D18S51, D19S433, D21S11, FGA, TH01, vWA, D10S1248, D22S1045, D2S441, D1S1656, D12S391 and amelogenin).

Y-STR analysis focuses on STR markers found on the Y chromosome, only carried by male individuals. For forensic labs, the most common application of Y-STRs is in criminal cases such as sexual assault, where evidence samples are difficult to resolve with traditional autosomal STR analysis due to low amounts of male DNA present in a high background of female DNA. The Yfiler Plus kit is approved for use by laboratories generating DNA profiles for inclusion in the US National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS database.

Take a tour of our Warrington, UK, site and see how state-of-the-art robotics and proven processes are setting a high industry standard for manufacturing of forensics products and learn more about our commitment to providing quality forensics solutions.

Developed with input from forensic DNA laboratories, GeneMapper ID-X Software helps save time and increases workflow efficiency. When combined with Data Collection Software and Applied Biosystems STR kits, GeneMapper ID-X Software helps enhance productivity and confidence, as well as IT support and compliance, in your HID laboratory’s data interpretation workflow.