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Żarczyńska M, Żarczyński P, Tomsia M. Nucleic Acids Persistence-Benefits and Limitations in Forensic Genetics. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1643. [PMID: 37628694 PMCID: PMC10454188 DOI: 10.3390/genes14081643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The analysis of genetic material may be the only way to identify an unknown person or solve a criminal case. Often, the conditions in which the genetic material was found determine the choice of the analytical method. Hence, it is extremely important to understand the influence of various factors, both external and internal, on genetic material. The review presents information on DNA and RNA persistence, depending on the chemical and physical factors affecting the genetic material integrity. One of the factors taken into account is the time elapsing to genetic material recovery. Temperature can both preserve the genetic material or lead to its rapid degradation. Radiation, aquatic environments, and various types of chemical and physical factors also affect the genetic material quality. The substances used during the forensic process, i.e., for biological trace visualization or maceration, are also discussed. Proper analysis of genetic material degradation can help determine the post-mortem interval (PMI) or time since deposition (TsD), which may play a key role in criminal cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Żarczyńska
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 18 Medyków Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.Ż.); (P.Ż.)
| | - Piotr Żarczyński
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 18 Medyków Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.Ż.); (P.Ż.)
| | - Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Medical University of Silesia, 18 Medyków Street, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
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2
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Rapid DNA from a Disaster Victim Identification Perspective: is it a game changer? Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 58:102684. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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3
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Boelens D, Fogliatto Mariot R, Ghemrawi M, Kloosterman AD, McCord BR. The development of miniSTRs as a method for high-speed direct PCR. Electrophoresis 2021; 42:1352-1361. [PMID: 33811666 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202100066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There are situations in which it would be very valuable to have a DNA profile within a short time; for example, in mass disasters or airport security. In previous work, we have promoted reduced size STR amplicons for the analysis of degraded DNA. We also noticed that shorter amplicons are more robust during amplification, making them inhibition resistant, and potentially applicable to high-speed direct PCR. Here, we describe a set of miniSTRs capable of rapid direct PCR amplification. The selected markers are a subset of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) loci modified to permit high-speed amplification. Using the proposed protocol, the amplification of eight loci plus amelogenin directly from a saliva sample can be completed in 7 min and 38 s using a two-step PCR with 30 cycles of 98°C for 2 s and 62°C for 7 s on a Streck Philisa thermocycler. Selection of DNA polymerase, optimization of the two-step PCR cycling conditions, the primer concentrations, and the dilution of saliva is described. This method shows great potential as a quick screening method to obtain a presumptive DNA profile when time is limited, particularly when combined with high-speed separation and detection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dide Boelens
- Department of Chemistry, Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | - Mirna Ghemrawi
- Department of Chemistry, Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Ate D Kloosterman
- CLHC, Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bruce R McCord
- Department of Chemistry, Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Florida, USA
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4
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Romsos EL, French JL, Smith M, Figarelli V, Harran F, Vandegrift G, Moreno LI, Callaghan TF, Brocato J, Vaidyanathan J, Pedroso JC, Amy A, Stoiloff S, Morillo VH, Czetyrko K, Johnson ED, de Tagyos J, Murray A, Vallone PM. Results of the 2018 Rapid DNA Maturity Assessment. J Forensic Sci 2020; 65:953-959. [PMID: 31985834 PMCID: PMC11034630 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Three commercially available integrated rapid DNA instruments were tested as a part of a rapid DNA maturity assessment in July of 2018. The assessment was conducted with sets of blinded single-source reference samples provided to participants for testing on the individual rapid platforms within their laboratories. The data were returned to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for review and analysis. Both FBI-defined automated review (Rapid DNA Analysis) and manual review (Modified Rapid DNA Analysis) of the datasets were conducted to assess the success of genotyping the 20 Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core STR loci and full profiles generated by the instruments. Genotype results from the multiple platforms, participating laboratories, and STR typing chemistries were combined into a single analysis. The Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 80% for full profiles (85% for the 20 CODIS core loci) with automated analysis. Modified Rapid DNA Analysis resulted in a success rate of 90% for both the CODIS 20 core loci and full profiles (all attempted loci per chemistry). An analysis of the peak height ratios demonstrated that 95% of all heterozygous alleles were above 59% heterozygote balance. For base-pair sizing precision, the precision was below the standard 0.5 bp deviation for both the ANDE 6C System and the RapidHIT 200.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Romsos
- Applied Genetics Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD, 20899-8314
| | | | - Mark Smith
- Arizona Department Public Safety, 2102 West Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
| | - Vincent Figarelli
- Arizona Department Public Safety, 2102 West Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85009
| | - Frederick Harran
- Bensalem Township Police Department, 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem, PA, 19020
| | - Glenn Vandegrift
- Bensalem Township Police Department, 2400 Byberry Road, Bensalem, PA, 19020
| | - Lilliana I Moreno
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA, 22135
| | - Thomas F Callaghan
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, 2501 Investigation Parkway, Quantico, VA, 22135
| | - Joanie Brocato
- Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, 376 East Airport Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70806
| | - Janaki Vaidyanathan
- Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, 376 East Airport Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70806
| | - Juan C Pedroso
- Miami Beach Police Department, 1100 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33139
| | - Andrea Amy
- Miami Beach Police Department, 1100 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33139
| | - Stephanie Stoiloff
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Victor H Morillo
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Karina Czetyrko
- Miami-Dade Police Department, Forensic Services Bureau, 9105 NW 25th Street, Doral, FL, 33172
| | - Elizabeth D Johnson
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Jessica de Tagyos
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Ashley Murray
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory Defense Forensic Science Center, 4930 North 31st Street, Forest Park, GA, 30297
| | - Peter M Vallone
- Applied Genetics Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD, 20899-8314
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de Araujo WR, Cardoso TM, da Rocha RG, Santana MH, Muñoz RA, Richter EM, Paixão TR, Coltro WK. Portable analytical platforms for forensic chemistry: A review. Anal Chim Acta 2018; 1034:1-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Liew PVO, Riccardi LN, Afolabi AO, Goodwin W, Hadi S. Optimization of a reduced volume PCR amplification for PowerPlex® Fusion kit using FTA™ cards and generation of population genetic data for Brunei population. Electrophoresis 2018; 39:2979-2990. [PMID: 30113077 DOI: 10.1002/elps.201800256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The commercial PowerPlex® Fusion kit is an autosomal STR multiplex kit that has high discrimination power and is more informative in forensic, paternity, and relationship-testing cases. Key features of this multiplex system are the possibility to direct amplify FTA™ card punches as well as non-FTA cards and commonly used swabs; optimised inhibitor tolerance and high sensitivity generating full profiles from amount as little as 100 pg of human DNA. This study focused on the optimization of performance variables such as FTA™ punch sizes, reduced reaction volumes, and FTA™ purification reagent aiming to increase the analytical sensitivity, decrease the sample consumption, and cost effectiveness. LOD and LOQ values demonstrated high sensitivity of the PowerPlex® Fusion system. In addition, population databases of Brunei Malay and Chinese from the Brunei Darussalam were established, and parameters of forensic importance were calculated. Overall, the forensic parameters indicated an enhanced utility of the PowerPlex® Fusion kit for forensic evidence analysis and paternity testing in Brunei Malay and Chinese populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Vun Onn Liew
- School of Forensic and Applied Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | | | | | - William Goodwin
- School of Forensic and Applied Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Sibte Hadi
- School of Forensic and Applied Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Cornelis S, Fauvart M, Gansemans Y, Vander Plaetsen AS, Colle F, Wiederkehr RS, Deforce D, Stakenborg T, Van Nieuwerburgh F. Multiplex STR amplification sensitivity in a silicon microchip. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9853. [PMID: 29959383 PMCID: PMC6026139 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28229-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The demand for solutions to perform forensic DNA profiling outside of centralized laboratories is increasing. We here demonstrate highly sensitive STR amplification using a silicon micro-PCR (µPCR) chip. Exploiting industry-standard semiconductor manufacturing processes, a device was fabricated that features a small form factor thanks to an integrated heating element covering three parallel micro-reactors with a reaction volume of 0.5 µl each. Diluted reference DNA samples (1 ng–31 pg) were amplified on the µPCR chip using the forensically validated AmpFISTR Identifier Plus kit, followed by conventional capillary electrophoresis. Complete STR profiles were generated with input DNA quantities down to 62 pg. Occasional allelic dropouts were observed from 31 pg downward. On-chip STR profiles were compared with those of identical samples amplified using a conventional thermal cycler for direct comparison of amplification sensitivity in a forensic setting. The observed sensitivity was in line with kit specifications for both µPCR and conventional PCR. Finally, a rapid amplification protocol was developed. Complete STR profiles could be generated in less than 17 minutes from as little as 125 pg template DNA. Together, our results are an important step towards the development of commercial, mass-produced, relatively cheap, handheld devices for on-site testing in forensic DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senne Cornelis
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ghent University, 9000, Gent, Belgium.,Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, imec, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Fauvart
- Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, imec, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yannick Gansemans
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ghent University, 9000, Gent, Belgium
| | | | - Frederik Colle
- Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, imec, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ghent University, 9000, Gent, Belgium.
| | - Tim Stakenborg
- Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, imec, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
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Gibson-Daw G, Crenshaw K, McCord B. Optimization of ultrahigh-speed multiplex PCR for forensic analysis. Anal Bioanal Chem 2017; 410:235-245. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-017-0715-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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9
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PCR: Identification of Genetic Polymorphisms. Methods Mol Biol 2017. [PMID: 28502002 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6990-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enables the amplification of a specific sequence of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) through the process of three main steps: template DNA denaturation, annealing of the primers to complementary sequences, and primer extension to synthesize DNA strands. By using this method, the target sequence will be copied and amplified at an exponential rate. PCR provides a qualitative method for identifying DNA from fresh or dried cells/body fluids, formalin-fixed archival tissue specimens, and ancient specimens.Herein we describe basic information for performing successful PCR experiments using the amplification of a human Alu insertion on the PV92 gene locus on chromosome 16 as an example method.
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DuVall JA, Le Roux D, Thompson BL, Birch C, Nelson DA, Li J, Mills DL, Tsuei AC, Ensenberger MG, Sprecher C, Storts DR, Root BE, Landers JP. Rapid multiplex DNA amplification on an inexpensive microdevice for human identification via short tandem repeat analysis. Anal Chim Acta 2017. [PMID: 28622802 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2017.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Forensic DNA analysis requires several steps, including DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and separation of PCR fragments. Intuitively, there are numerous situations where it would be beneficial to speed up the overall DNA analysis process; in this work, we focus on the most time-consuming component in the analysis pipeline, namely the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Primers were specially designed to target 10 human genomic loci, all yielding amplicons shorter than 350 bases, for ease of downstream integration with on-board microchip electrophoresis. Primer concentrations were adjusted specifically for microdevice amplification, resulting in well-balanced short tandem repeat (STR) profiles. Furthermore, studies were performed to push the limits of the DNA polymerase to achieve rapid, multiplexed PCR on various substrates, including transparent and black polyethylene terephthalate (Pe), and with two distinct adhesives, toner and heat sensitive adhesive (HSA). Rapid STR-based multiplexed PCR amplification is demonstrated in 15 min on a Pe microdevice using a custom-built system for fluid flow control and thermocycling for the full 10-plex, and in 10 min for a smaller multiplex consisting of six core CODIS loci plus Amelogenin with amplicons shorter than 200bp. Lastly, preliminary studies indicate the capability of this PCR microdevice platform to be integrated with both upstream DNA extraction, and downstream microchip electrophoresis. This, coupled to the use of reagents that are compatible with lyophilization (lyo-compatible) for PCR, represents the potential for a fully integrated rotationally-driven microdevice for complete forensic DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn A DuVall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Delphine Le Roux
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Brandon L Thompson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Christopher Birch
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Daniel A Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Jingyi Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - Daniel L Mills
- TeGrex Technologies, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - An-Chi Tsuei
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | | | | | | | - Brian E Root
- Applied Research Institute, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States
| | - James P Landers
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States; Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States; Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health Science Center, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States; TeGrex Technologies, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States.
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11
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Han J, Sun J, Zhao L, Zhao W, Liu Y, Li C. Validation study of a 15-plex rapid STR amplification system for human identification. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2017; 28:71-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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12
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Abstract
The author's thoughts and opinions on where the field of forensic DNA testing is headed for the next decade are provided in the context of where the field has come over the past 30 years. Similar to the Olympic motto of 'faster, higher, stronger', forensic DNA protocols can be expected to become more rapid and sensitive and provide stronger investigative potential. New short tandem repeat (STR) loci have expanded the core set of genetic markers used for human identification in Europe and the USA. Rapid DNA testing is on the verge of enabling new applications. Next-generation sequencing has the potential to provide greater depth of coverage for information on STR alleles. Familial DNA searching has expanded capabilities of DNA databases in parts of the world where it is allowed. Challenges and opportunities that will impact the future of forensic DNA are explored including the need for education and training to improve interpretation of complex DNA profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Butler
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
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13
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Romsos EL, Vallone PM. Rapid PCR of STR markers: Applications to human identification. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2015; 18:90-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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