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

• NCJ Number: 250028
• Journal: Legal Medicine Volume: 18 Dated: January 2016 Pages: 7-12
• Date Published: January 2016
• Author(s): A. Ambers; M. Turnbough
• Length: 6 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2010-DN-BX-K227
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

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)