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The PowerPlex® 21 System is a STR multiplex that has been optimized for casework samples while still being capable of database workflows including direct amplification. The loci included in the multiplex offer increasing overlap with core loci used in different countries and regions throughout the world. The PowerPlex® 21 System contains D1S1656, D2S1338, D3S1358, D5S818, D6S1043, D7S820, D8S1179, D12S391, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D19S433, D21S11, Amelogenin, CSF1PO, FGA, Penta D, Penta E, TH01, TPOX, and vWA. These loci represent all 13 core CODIS loci in addition to loci commonly used in Asia and Europe. A developmental validation study was completed to document performance capabilities and limitations of the PowerPlex® 21 System. Data from this validation work served as the basis for the following conclusions: genotyping of single-source samples was reliable across a range of template DNA concentrations with >95% alleles called at 50pg. Direct amplification of samples from FTA® storage cards was successfully performed using the reagents provided with the system and modified cycling protocols provided in the technical manual. Mixture analysis showed that over 95% of minor alleles were detected at 1:9 ratios. Reaction conditions including volume and annealing temperature as well as the concentrations of primers, DNA polymerase, magnesium, and Master Mix were shown to be optimal and able to withstand moderate variations without affecting system performance. Reproducible results were generated by different users at different sites. Finally, concordance studies showed consistent results when comparing the PowerPlex® 21 System with other commercially available STR-genotyping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The PowerPlex® Y23 System combines the seventeen Y-STR loci in current commercially available Y-STR kits (DYS19, DYS385a/b, DYS389I/II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, and Y-GATA-H4) with six new highly discriminating Y-STR loci (DYS481, DYS533, DYS549, DYS570, DYS576, and DYS643). These six new loci have higher gene diversities than most of the loci in other commercial Y-STR analysis kits, allowing for further distinction between unrelated male individuals. In addition, the inclusion of two rapidly mutating Y-STR loci may allow for the discrimination of related individuals. The PowerPlex® Y23 System is designed to amplify DNA from purified extracts as well as direct amplification from substrates used to collect database samples (e.g. swabs and storage cards). Validation of the PowerPlex® Y23 System includes all of the studies required by the FBI and SWGDAM. The results demonstrate that the PowerPlex® Y23 System is a robust and reliable amplification kit capable of overcoming high concentrations of commonly encountered inhibitors such as hematin, humic acid, and tannic acid. Full profiles are consistently detected with 62.5pg of male DNA, even in the presence of excessive amounts of female DNA, establishing the PowerPlex® Y23 System as a sensitive method for Y-STR testing. Complete Y-STR profiles are detected from mixed samples with 62.5pg of male DNA in a background of 400ng of female DNA or 125pg of male DNA mixed with 3000ng of female DNA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: STR multiplexes remain the cornerstone of genotyping forensic samples. The PowerPlex® 16 HS System contains the core CODIS loci: D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D21S11, CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, and vWA. Additional loci amplified in the multiplex reaction are the sex-determinant locus, amelogenin, and two pentanucleotide STR loci, Penta D and Penta E. The PowerPlex® 16 HS System is an updated version of the PowerPlex 16® System; while the primers and dyes remain unchanged, it introduces an enhanced buffer system that includes hot-start Taq DNA polymerase and ensures robust performance. Due to the modification of the reaction mix, a multi-laboratory developmental validation study was completed to document performance capabilities and limitations for the revised assay. Data within this validation was generated by eight laboratories and served as the basis for the following conclusions: genotyping of single-source samples was consistent across a large range of template DNA concentrations with most laboratories obtaining complete profiles at 62.5pg. Mixture analyses showed that over 90% of minor alleles were detected at 1:9 ratios. Optimum amplification cycle number was ultimately dependent on the sensitivity of the detection instrument and could be adjusted to accommodate a range of DNA template concentrations. Reaction conditions including volume and annealing temperature as well as the concentrations of primers, Taq DNA polymerase, and magnesium were shown to be optimal and able to withstand moderate variations without affecting multiplexed STR amplification. Finally, data from non-probative samples and concordance studies showed consistent results when comparing the PowerPlex® 16 HS System with the PowerPlex® 16 System as well as other commercially available systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]