Comparison between magnetic bead and qPCR library normalisation methods for forensic MPS genotyping.

Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is fast approaching operational use in forensic science, with the capability to analyse hundreds of DNA identity and DNA intelligence markers in multiple samples simultaneously. The ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Kit on MiSeq FGx™ (Illumina) workflow can provide profiles for autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs), X chromosome and Y chromosome STRs, identity single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), biogeographical ancestry SNPs and phenotype (eye and hair colour) SNPs from a sample. The library preparation procedure involves a series of steps including target amplification, library purification and library normalisation.

Allele frequency data for 15 autosomal STR loci in eight Indonesian subpopulations.

Evolutionary and cultural history can affect the genetic characteristics of a population and influences the frequency of different variants at a particular genetic marker (allele frequency). These characteristics directly influence the strength of forensic DNA evidence and make the availability of suitable allele frequency information for every discrete country or jurisdiction highly relevant. Population sub-structure within Indonesia has not been well characterised but should be expected given the complex geographical, linguistic and cultural architecture of the Indonesian population.

Assessment of high resolution melting analysis as a potential SNP genotyping technique in forensic casework.

High resolution melting (HRM) analysis is a simple, cost effective, closed tube SNP genotyping technique with high throughput potential. The effectiveness of HRM for forensic SNP genotyping was assessed with five commercially available HRM kits evaluated on the ViiA™ 7 Real Time PCR instrument. Four kits performed satisfactorily against forensically relevant criteria.