Modified DOP-PCR for Improved STR Typing of Degraded DNA From Human Skeletal Remains and Bloodstains

• NCJ Number: 250028
• Author(s): A. Ambers, M. Turnbough
• Date Published: January 2016
• Length: 6 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Award: Addressing Quality and Quantity; the Role of DNA Repair and Whole Genome Amplification in Forensically Relevant Samples

Annotation

Several strategies have been proposed to address the challenges posed by degraded and low copy templates, including a PCR-based whole genome amplification method called degenerate oligonucleotide-primed PCR (DOP-PCR). This study assessed the efficacy of four modified versions of the original DOP-PCR primer that retain at least a portion of the 5Œ defined sequence and alter the number of bases on the 3Œ end.

Abstract

The use of each of the four modified primers resulted in improved STR profiles from environmentally-damaged bloodstains, contemporary human skeletal remains, American Civil War era bone samples, and skeletal remains of WWII soldiers over those obtained by previously described DOP-PCR methods and routine STR typing. Additionally, the modified DOP-PCR procedure allows for a larger volume of DNA extract to be used, reducing the need to concentrate the sample and thus mitigating the effects of concurrent concentration of inhibitors. (Publisher abstract modified)