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dHPLC Method for Forensic DNA Analysis

NCJ Number
213893
Date Published
2005
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This exploratory study investigated the usefulness of denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (dHPLC) as an analytic method for DNA testing.
Abstract
Overall, the results indicate that Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis by dHPLC is a useful screen of DNA samples prior to sequencing. Additionally, dHPLC was found to be an effective method for separating adducts formed from the parent oligonucleotide, indicating that dHPLC may provide a powerful forensic tool, especially when coupled with mass spectrometry. Strengths of the dHPLC analysis method are ease of instrument operation, shorter sample analysis time, and potential for the development of new analysis methods. The primary weakness of dHPLC as a DNA analysis method is the absence of robust methods that can be routinely applied by crime laboratories. Research methods involved the extraction of DNA from hair shaft material from 35 individuals using the Promega Tissue and Hair Extraction kit together with DNA IQ. Future research should focus on the role of dHPLC technology and mass spectrometry in the development of forensic biomarkers. References, figures

Date Published: January 1, 2005