Background: WGA (Whole Genome Amplification) in forensic genetics can eliminate the technical limitations arising from low amounts of genomic DNA (gDNA). However, it has not been used to date because any amplification bias generated may complicate the interpretation of results. Our aim in this paper was to assess the applicability of MDA to forensic SNP genotyping by performing a comparative analysis of genomic and amplified DNA samples. A 26-SNPs TaqMan panel specifically designed for low copy number (LCN) and/or severely degraded genomic DNA was typed on 100 genomic as well as amplified DNA samples.

Background: The recent advances in human genetics have recently provided new insights into phenotypic variation and genome variability. Current forensic DNA techniques involve the search for genetic similarities and differences between biological samples. Consequently the selection of ideal genomic biomarkers for human identification is crucial in order to ensure the highest stability and reproducibility of results.

The distribution of six genetic loci analyzed by PCR using the commercial AmpliType® PM (PolyMarker) kit (Perkin Elmer, Norwalk, CT) was evaluated in 200 unrelated Italian individuals. The examined loci included: Group-specific component (Gc) (1), D7S8 (2), hemoglobin G gammaglobin (HBGG) (3), glycophorin A (GYPA) (4), low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) (5), and HLA DQ-alpha (6). The AmpliType PM Kit analysis is based on the reverse dot blot format and the results are interpreted by reading the pattern of blue dots which determine the alleles present at each locus. The population data collected allow the implementation of AmpliType PM into routine casework.

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