Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technologies offer opportunities to expand forensic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) typing capabilities affording higher resolution, an increase in discrimination power, and potentially enabling mixture interpretation. Additionally, improvements to MPS technologies and workflows have made implementation into forensic genetic laboratories increasingly more feasible. Following initial successful studies with the Precision ID mtDNA Whole Genome Panel, the process of internal validation and implementation of whole genome mtDNA sequencing began in our Missing Persons and Forensic Casework Units.
In a criminal paternity case, which involved analysis of the product of conception, a rare circumstance was observed. The product of conception was triploidy, apparently due to an egg fertilized by two sperm. Since there is little guidance on how to calculate the probability of the DNA evidence given some basic hypotheses, the formulae were derived and are presented herein. These approaches could provide guidance for similar situations if they arise.
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