The application of molecular beacons as a genotyping tool in forensic Science
Department
Chemistry
Recommended Citation
Fredericks, Jamie D., "The application of molecular beacons as a genotyping tool in forensic Science" (2017). University Presentation Showcase Event. 28.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2017/faculty/28
Abstract
Traditionally four distinct and isolated stages are required to produce a DNA profile from a forensic sample. First, the sample must be collected. Collection depends on the sample type and may require buccal swabs or specialized collection equipment. Once collected DNA must be extracted and isolated from the cells, removing proteins and lipids within. Purified DNA is then used to generate the profile. Specific Short Tandem Repeats (STRs), a type of polymorphism (a type of genetic variation in individuals that is traditionally used for human identification), are amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and subsequently analyzed through capillary electrophoresis. Depending on the sample type and chosen protocols, a sample can take 24 to 48 hours to analyze.
The objective of this project is to use molecular beacons to directly genotype forensic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DNA samples without the need time-consuming DNA extraction or capillary electrophoresis. SNPs show unquestionable advantages over STRs. The length of DNA required for analysis is relatively small (in comparison to a STR) and is often utilized in forensic samples where the DNA has become too degraded for STR analysis. The molecular beacon assay can be used to quickly screen samples for a small number of targets, including degraded and reference samples. The tool is designed to increase the overall success rate of DNA profiling by eliminating non-viable samples.
Presentation format
Poster
Poster Number
121
The application of molecular beacons as a genotyping tool in forensic Science
Traditionally four distinct and isolated stages are required to produce a DNA profile from a forensic sample. First, the sample must be collected. Collection depends on the sample type and may require buccal swabs or specialized collection equipment. Once collected DNA must be extracted and isolated from the cells, removing proteins and lipids within. Purified DNA is then used to generate the profile. Specific Short Tandem Repeats (STRs), a type of polymorphism (a type of genetic variation in individuals that is traditionally used for human identification), are amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and subsequently analyzed through capillary electrophoresis. Depending on the sample type and chosen protocols, a sample can take 24 to 48 hours to analyze.
The objective of this project is to use molecular beacons to directly genotype forensic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DNA samples without the need time-consuming DNA extraction or capillary electrophoresis. SNPs show unquestionable advantages over STRs. The length of DNA required for analysis is relatively small (in comparison to a STR) and is often utilized in forensic samples where the DNA has become too degraded for STR analysis. The molecular beacon assay can be used to quickly screen samples for a small number of targets, including degraded and reference samples. The tool is designed to increase the overall success rate of DNA profiling by eliminating non-viable samples.
