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STR Data Analysis and Interpretation for Forensic Analysts

Spurious Peaks

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Chemistry and instrument-related issues can lead to spurious peaks. Spurious peaks, also referred to as artifacts, include dye blobs, spikes, and noise; they may be difficult to differentiate from alleles.

In general, spurious peaks are not reproducible. Samples can be reinjected to determine whether suspected artifacts are reproducible or analysts can rely on their professional experience to differentiate alleles from spurious peaks.

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