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AbstractBackground At present, there are no available genetic data on the AGCU EX22 Kit from the Wuhu Han population.Aim This study investigates the applicability of the AGCU EX22 kit, designed for the Chinese population for forensic analysis and population genetics of the Wuhu Han population.Subjects and methods Bloodstains from 1565 unrelated healthy individuals in Wuhu city, Anhui Province, were collected for analysis. The AGCU EX22 kit was used for amplification, and capillary electrophoresis was used to separate the amplification products. Allele frequencies and forensic parameters were determined. The Wuhu Han population was compared to 10 reference populations through genetic distance, a phylogenetic neighbor-joining tree and principal component analysis.Results In total, 281 alleles and 1187 genotypes were observed. No significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at any locus were found after Bonferroni’s correction. The 21 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) genetic markers exhibited high informativeness and polymorphism. The cumulative power of discrimination and power of exclusion were 0.999999999999999999999999913380 and 0.999999996752339, respectively. Population comparisons revealed a genetic affinity between Wuhu Han and southern Han populations, except for the Guangdong Han population, which aligned with the traditional geographical division in China.Conclusion The AGCU EX22 Kit, containing 21 STR loci, is suitable for forensic application and population genetics studies in the Wuhu Han population.

Background: Argentinean population is the result of admixture between South Amerindians, Europeans and to a lesser degree, Africans. Since the advent of forensic molecular genetics, the construction of local reference databases became mandatory. Aiming to further extend the technical quality reference database of Argentina, we present herein the allele frequencies for 24 autosomal STRs, including D22S1045, and SE33 (not previously reported for Argentina in STRidER). Conclusions: Genotypes of 6454 unrelated individuals (3761 males and 2694 females) from 13 out of 23 provinces were analysed. Forensic parameters were calculated for each marker. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.661 (TPOX) to 0.941 (SE33). The locus SE33 was revealed to be the most informative marker showing the highest values for PIC (0.955), GD (0.952), TPI (8.455) and PE (0.879). On the other hand, TPOX turned out to be the least informative marker: PIC (0.618), GD (0.669), and PE (0.371). The high number of analyzed individuals allowed detecting low frequency alleles and microvariants in CSF1PO; D16S539 and D21S11 D18S51; PENTA D; PENTA E and at locus D6S1043. Methods and Results: This study is the most extensive for Argentina and complements the already reported information concerning the autosomal STRs commonly used in forensic identification. The results were submitted passing STRidER quality control standards (QC), receiving the reference number STR000327 v.2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Souss, located in southern Morocco, is one of the oldest areas of human settlement in North Africa. Despite this historical relevance, the Souss has not received sufficient attention in terms of population genetic studies. Methods: In this study, we utilized the AmpFlSTR Identifiler PCR amplification system to establish the allelic frequencies and statistical parameters of 15 autosomal STRs (Short Tandem Repeats) in 150 healthy unrelated Berber‐speaking individuals from the Souss. We explored the genetic relationships between Souss and other reference populations based on our dataset as well as previously published population data. Results: A total of 210 alleles were detected with corresponding allele frequencies ranging from 0.003 to 0.367. The most polymorphic locus was D18S51 with 23 alleles which was also the most discriminating locus as expected. The phylogenetic analysis clustered the Souss closer to the Azrou and southern Moroccan populations. The population comparison showed affinity between the Souss and most North African populations, as well as with Middle Easterners and Europeans. Conclusion: Historical events and geographical proximity have contributed to the affinity between the Souss and surrounding North African, Southern European, and Middle Eastern populations. Overall, this study highlights the reliability of the 15 STRs for identifying individuals and assessing paternity in the Souss population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The Souss, located in southern Morocco, is one of the oldest areas of human settlement in North Africa. Despite this historical relevance, the Souss has not received sufficient attention in terms of population genetic studies. Methods In this study, we utilized the AmpFlSTR Identifiler PCR amplification system to establish the allelic frequencies and statistical parameters of 15 autosomal STRs (Short Tandem Repeats) in 150 healthy unrelated Berber‐speaking individuals from the Souss. We explored the genetic relationships between Souss and other reference populations based on our dataset as well as previously published population data. Results A total of 210 alleles were detected with corresponding allele frequencies ranging from 0.003 to 0.367. The most polymorphic locus was D18S51 with 23 alleles which was also the most discriminating locus as expected. The phylogenetic analysis clustered the Souss closer to the Azrou and southern Moroccan populations. The population comparison showed affinity between the Souss and most North African populations, as well as with Middle Easterners and Europeans. Conclusion Historical events and geographical proximity have contributed to the affinity between the Souss and surrounding North African, Southern European, and Middle Eastern populations. Overall, this study highlights the reliability of the 15 STRs for identifying individuals and assessing paternity in the Souss population.

Background Short tandem repeats (STRs) are consecutive repetition of a repeat motif and widely used in forensic medicine and human genetics because of their high polymorphism. Subjects and methods In the current study, 23 autosomal STR loci were genotyped from 1263 unrelated healthy individuals living in Panjin City, Liaoning Province, Northeastern China using the VeriFilerTM Express PCR Amplification Kit. The population comparison was performed between the Panjin Han population and the other relevant groups to further explore the structure of Panjin Han and its relationship with the other groups. Results The results found 316 alleles across the 23 STRs and the corresponding allelic frequencies ranged from 0.5198 to 0.0004. Except for D3S1358, TPOX, TH01, and D3S1358, all STR loci were highly polymorphic (PIC > 0.7), with the Penta E locus having the highest degree of polymorphism (0.9147). For population comparison, the exact test of population differentiation found that no significant difference was observed between the Panjin Han and the other Han populations, except for Guangdong Han and Jiangxi Han. Conclusion The Panjin Han population showed significant differences with the other ethnic groups in China (Bouyei, Dong, Hui, Miao, Tibetan, and Uygur) and the foreign ethnic groups.

Aim: This study was designed to investigate the genetic polymorphisms and forensic parameters of the 20 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci included in the PowerPlex® 21 System (Promega, USA) in the Henan Han population with a view to expand the genetic information available for this population in human genome databases. Subjects and methods: We evaluated the genetic polymorphisms from 20 autosomal STR loci using DNA typing based on 2995 individuals from the Henan Han population in Central China and then used this information to investigate the genetic relationships between this population and 10 other Han populations across China. These comparisons included genetic distance, phylogenetic trees, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: We identified a total of 290 alleles and 1343 genotypes within the Henan Han population, with none of these loci deviating from their Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The population comparisons revealed that geographically close populations demonstrated closer genetic relationships. Thus, the Henan Han population was shown to be close to both the Beijing Han and Tianjin Han populations, creating a single cluster. In addition, these 20 STR loci exhibited a high degree of genetic polymorphisms, making them suitable for individual identification and parentage testing. Conclusions: The results of this study will enrich the forensic databases of Chinese Han populations and serve as a resource for further studies in these populations.

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Short tandem repeats (STRs) are consecutive repetition of a repeat motif and widely used in forensic medicine and human genetics because of their high polymorphism. In the current study, 23 autosomal STR loci were genotyped from 1263 unrelated healthy individuals living in Panjin City, Liaoning Province, Northeastern China using the VeriFilerTM Express PCR Amplification Kit. The population comparison was performed between the Panjin Han population and the other relevant groups to further explore the structure of Panjin Han and its relationship with the other groups. The results found 316 alleles across the 23 STRs and the corresponding allelic frequencies ranged from 0.5198 to 0.0004. Except for D3S1358, TPOX, TH01, and D3S1358, all STR loci were highly polymorphic (PIC > 0.7), with the Penta E locus having the highest degree of polymorphism (0.9147). For population comparison, the exact test of population differentiation found that no significant difference was observed between the Panjin Han and the other Han populations, except for Guangdong Han and Jiangxi Han. The Panjin Han population showed significant differences with the other ethnic groups in China (Bouyei, Dong, Hui, Miao, Tibetan, and Uygur) and the foreign ethnic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, kinship testing is very common in forensic caseworks, but the power of autosomal short tandem repeats (A-STRs) may be limited in complex cases. X-Chromosome short tandem repeats (X-STRs), having a unique heritage mode, should be of special use in some deficient cases. To evaluate and compare the potential of A-STR and X-STR as supplement genetic markers in deficient kinship testing, we simulated 10,000 duos for each of 18 kinds of relationships involving full sibling, half-sibling, grandparent-grandchild, and uncle/aunt-nephew/niece. Loci from STRTyper10, PowerPlex 16, and Investigator Argus X-12 were studied in Southern Han Chinese and the distribution of likelihood ratio (LR) values was analysed. With the addition of the X-12 system, the distribution of LR values for the full sisters, paternal half-sisters, paternal grandmother-granddaughters, maternal aunt-nieces, and maternal aunt-nephews separated much more obviously from those of unrelated duos, and the effectiveness was 1.0000, 0.99865, 0.9991, 0.8996 and 0.9634, respectively, which was more efficient than A-STRs. For the individual duos with other relationships, the effects of adding X-STRs and A-STRs were similar. Therefore, for the Southern Han Chinese, X-STRs can be very useful in kinship testing involving full sisters, paternal half-sisters, paternal grandmother-granddaughters, and maternal aunt-nieces/nephews.

Aim: This study was designed to investigate the genetic polymorphisms and forensic parameters of the 20 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci included in the PowerPlex® 21 System (Promega, USA) in the Henan Han population with a view to expand the genetic information available for this population in human genome databases. Subjects and methods: We evaluated the genetic polymorphisms from 20 autosomal STR loci using DNA typing based on 2995 individuals from the Henan Han population in Central China and then used this information to investigate the genetic relationships between this population and 10 other Han populations across China. These comparisons included genetic distance, phylogenetic trees, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: We identified a total of 290 alleles and 1343 genotypes within the Henan Han population, with none of these loci deviating from their Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The population comparisons revealed that geographically close populations demonstrated closer genetic relationships. Thus, the Henan Han population was shown to be close to both the Beijing Han and Tianjin Han populations, creating a single cluster. In addition, these 20 STR loci exhibited a high degree of genetic polymorphisms, making them suitable for individual identification and parentage testing. Conclusions: The results of this study will enrich the forensic databases of Chinese Han populations and serve as a resource for further studies in these populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a newly devised autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system for 19 autosomal loci (D12S391, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D19S433, D2S1338, D21S11, D3S1358, D5S818, D6S1043, D7S820, D8S1179, CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, vWA, Penta D and Penta E), 27 Y-chromosome STR loci (DYS19, DYS385, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS449, DYS456, DYS458, DYS460, DYS481, DYS518, DYS533, DYS570, DYS576, DYS635, DYS627, YGATAH4 and DYF387S1) and amelogenin with six-colour fluorescent labelling. Various parameters were evaluated, such as its accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, stability, ability to analysis of mixtures and effects of changes in the PCR-based procedures. All of the 47 selected STR loci were accurately and robustly amplified from 282 bloodstain samples. The species-specificity was high and some ability to inhibit Hematin was identified. The lowest detectable DNA amount was ≥0.125 ng. All of the male loci of the secondary component were revealed precisely when the control DNA was mixed at male/female and male/male ratios of 1:4 or more. We conclude that the present 19-plex autosomal STR and 27 Y-STR assay is both accurate and sensitive. It constitutes an additional powerful tool for forensic applications.

Abstract Background DNA profiling has proven to be a valuable technique for identification of individuals in crime. Currently, the technique targets several short tandem repeat (STR) regions in human genome. However, increasing number of samples submitted for STR analysis may lead to delays due to the limited number of experienced analysts who might be available at any given moment and the time taken to complete lengthy DNA profiling procedures. This study was conducted to test the specificity, repeatability, reproducibility and robustness of Investigator® 24plex GO! kit for genotyping of reference samples submitted to the Royal Malaysian Police Forensic DNA Laboratory for DNA database. Material and methods In this study, Investigator® 24plex GO! kit was used to directly amplify STR loci from buccal swab cell of reference samples that had previously been STR typed using GlobalFiler™ Express kit. Capillary electrophoresis was carried out on a 3500xL Genetic Analyser using POP-4® Polymer. Amplified products were assigned to particular STR alleles using the GeneMapper ID-X version 1.4 software. Results Our study shows that STR profiles generated using Investigator® 24plex GO! gave concordance results with those previously obtained using the GlobalFiler™ Express kit. In addition, quality sensors included in the kit are of particular importance for determining the effectiveness of the PCR reaction and help to indicate the nature and quantity of DNA template for PCR amplification. Conclusion The Investigator® 24plex GO! kit is reliable for STR typing of reference samples.

Aim: Genetic diversity and forensic efficacy of 20 autosomal STR genetic markers were investigated in a highly diverse population of Rajasthan, a state in north-western India. Subjects and methods: In this study, 317 blood samples from unrelated healthy individuals were directly amplified using the PowerPlex® 21 multiplex system (Promega). Amplified products were separated by capillary electrophoresis using a Genetic Analyser –3500 XL (Thermo Fisher Scientific). The data thus obtained was statistically analysed using population genetic software. Results: The studied population showed genetic affinity with the geographically close populations. The locus Penta-E was found to be the most polymorphic with a value of 0.90 in the studied population. The combined discrimination power (CPD) and combined power of exclusion (CPE) were observed as >0.999999999 and 0.999999997, respectively, for all the studied 20 autosomal STR loci. The combined probability of match (CPm) was 1.39 × 10−25 and combined paternity index (CPI) was 3.66 × 108 for all the studied loci. Conclusion: The results conclusively support the hypothesis that the studied autosomal STR loci are polymorphic in nature and, besides being useful in forensic applications they can also be applied in anthropological and other population genetic studies. This study supports the ‘isolation-by-distance’ model. Genetic data obtained from this study will enrich the population data bank.

In order to determine the population allele frequencies of autosomal STR markers of forensic interest in the Zimbabwean population, we analyzed a sample of 478 individuals from 19 different ethnic groups using the PowerPlex® Fusion 6C Kit (Promega Corp, Madison, Wisconsin). The data obtained were compared among the different Zimbabwean ethnic groups as well as with several African populations to establish whether significant differences exist among them. No significant differences were found among the ethnic groups in Zimbabwe. Statistically significant differences were observed between allele frequencies in Zimbabwe and some other African populations, although FST with neighboring Bantu populations from South and Southeast regions were low (below 0.005 in most single locus comparisons). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) plays a unique role in population comparisons, phylogenetic reconstruction and migration history tracing. This study investigated the frequencies of 17 autosomal STR loci in the Han population from Wuxi, Eastern China, with the aim of expanding the available population information in human genetic databases and for forensic DNA analysis. The genetic polymorphisms of 17 STR loci were analysed in 5358 individuals of the Han population from Wuxi, Eastern China. Population comparisons including genetic distances, the neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were carried out between the Wuxi Han population and different ethnic groups. A total of 777 alleles at 17 autosomal STR loci were observed, with the corresponding allelic frequencies ranging from 0.0001–0.5210. The combined power of discrimination and exclusion for the 17 autosomal STR loci were 0.0000 and 0.000, respectively. Moreover, the phylogenetic analysis was performed between the Wuxi Han population and other relevant populations. The neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were generated based on Nei’s standard genetic distance. Population comparisons indicated that the Wuxi Han population had the closest genetic relationship with the Hubei Han population, relative to the other populations, which mirrors the historical and geographical background of the populations compared.

Background: Short tandem repeats (STRs) are genetic markers that are more informative than single nucleotide polymorphisms and they are widely used in forensic DNA analysis. Aim: To carry out the genetic analysis of 20 autosomal STR loci in Han individuals of Putian City, Southeast China, to expand the available population information for human genetic databases and forensic analysis. Subjects and methods: Saliva swabs from 1417 unrelated Chinese Han individuals from Putian City of Southeast China were collected and then genotyped using the SureID® 21G Human STR Identification Kit. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis based on the Nei’s standard genetic distance was performed between the Han population and other relevant populations based on the shared autosomal STR genotyping. Results: We found 272 alleles among 1417 unrelated individuals and the corresponding allelic frequencies ranged from 0.5409 to 0.0004. The combined power of exclusion (CPE) was 0.999999995514, and the combined power of discrimination (CPD) was 0.9999999999999999999999994061. Population comparison revealed that the Putian Han population makes a cluster with other Han populations from China while showing significant differences when compared with other worldwide populations. Conclusions: Our results found that the SureID® 21G Human STR Identification Kit panel was appropriate for forensic identity testing and paternity testing. Putian Han population had a closer genetic relationship with Han populations from other regions in China, while other minorities like Uighurs and Kazakhs from China showed significant differences.

Bone samples are utilized as a source of DNA in disaster victim identification and human remains investigations. However, DNA recovery from bones is time consuming and prone to contamination. A logical approach for postmortem identification is to validate efficient DNA extraction methods requiring less bone material using improved molecular kits with less hands-on time and workflows that facilitate faster turn-around time for processing. In this study, we evaluated DNA yield and amplification efficiency of DNA extracts using a new custom bone demineralization buffer (DMB; Promega) and extracted via manual and automated DNA IQ™ workflows. Including the demineralization step, the bone protocol can be completed in ∼4 h and even less with minimal sample handling when automated. Overall, a rapid and simple DNA extraction with improved allele recovery was validated using degraded bone samples exposed to tropical environments and post-disaster recovery as well as adverse conditions of embalming prior to internment.

GENis is an open source multi-tier information system developed to run a forensic DNA database at local, regional and national levels.11 Fundación Sadosky holds all rights over GENis software and authorizes the publication of this article. It was conceived as a highly customizable system, enforcing several security policies including: data encryption, double factor identification, structure of user’s roles and permissions, system-wide secure log auditing, non-repudiation protocols and a blockchain-based option to reinforce genetic profile´s integrity. GENis is able to perform genetic profile queries of autosomal STR’s and its design follows ENFSI22 European Network of Forensic Sciences Institutes. and ISFG33 International Society of Forensic Genetics. standards and recommendations. In this work, we present a summary of GENis system design and architecture, the implemented matching rule definitions and the framework used to provide statistical significance to profile matches.

Nowadays, kinship testing is very common in forensic caseworks, but the power of autosomal short tandem repeats (A-STRs) may be limited in complex cases. X-Chromosome short tandem repeats (X-STRs), having a unique heritage mode, should be of special use in some deficient cases. To evaluate and compare the potential of A-STR and X-STR as supplement genetic markers in deficient kinship testing, we simulated 10,000 duos for each of 18 kinds of relationships involving full sibling, half-sibling, grandparent-grandchild, and uncle/aunt-nephew/niece. Loci from STRTyper10, PowerPlex 16, and Investigator Argus X-12 were studied in Southern Han Chinese and the distribution of likelihood ratio (LR) values was analysed. With the addition of the X-12 system, the distribution of LR values for the full sisters, paternal half-sisters, paternal grandmother-granddaughters, maternal aunt-nieces, and maternal aunt-nephews separated much more obviously from those of unrelated duos, and the effectiveness was 1.0000, 0.99865, 0.9991, 0.8996 and 0.9634, respectively, which was more efficient than A-STRs. For the individual duos with other relationships, the effects of adding X-STRs and A-STRs were similar. Therefore, for the Southern Han Chinese, X-STRs can be very useful in kinship testing involving full sisters, paternal half-sisters, paternal grandmother-granddaughters, and maternal aunt-nieces/nephews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a newly devised autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system for 19 autosomal loci (D12S391, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D19S433, D2S1338, D21S11, D3S1358, D5S818, D6S1043, D7S820, D8S1179, CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, vWA, Penta D and Penta E), 27 Y-chromosome STR loci (DYS19, DYS385, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS449, DYS456, DYS458, DYS460, DYS481, DYS518, DYS533, DYS570, DYS576, DYS635, DYS627, YGATAH4 and DYF387S1) and amelogenin with six-colour fluorescent labelling. Various parameters were evaluated, such as its accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, stability, ability to analysis of mixtures and effects of changes in the PCR-based procedures. All of the 47 selected STR loci were accurately and robustly amplified from 282 bloodstain samples. The species-specificity was high and some ability to inhibit Hematin was identified. The lowest detectable DNA amount was ≥0.125 ng. All of the male loci of the secondary component were revealed precisely when the control DNA was mixed at male/female and male/male ratios of 1:4 or more. We conclude that the present 19-plex autosomal STR and 27 Y-STR assay is both accurate and sensitive. It constitutes an additional powerful tool for forensic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Hainan Island, located in the South China Sea and separated from the Leizhou Peninsula by Qiongzhou Strait, is the second largest island after Taiwan in China. With the expansion of Han Chinese and the gradual formation of “South Hlai and North Han”, nowadays, Hainan Hlai is the second largest population after Han Chinese in Hainan Island. Ha Hlai, distributed in southwest and southern Hainan Island, is the dominant branch of Hlai and speaks Ha localism. Methods We utilized the Huaxia™ Platinum PCR Amplification System (including 23 autosomal STRs and 2 sex‐linked markers) to obtain the first STR profiling batch of 657 Ha Hlai individuals (497 males and 160 females). In order to explore the genetic relationships between the studied Ha Hlai and other reference populations with different language families, population genetic analyses, including PCA, MDS, STRUCTURE, and phylogenetic analysis, were conducted based upon the raw data and allelic frequencies of the polymorphic autosomal STR markers. Results In total, 271 distinct alleles were observed at the 23 STR loci. The number of diverse alleles ranged from 7 at TPOX locus to 23 at FGA locus, and the allelic frequencies varied from 0.0008 to 0.5533. In addition, the CPE and CPD were 1‐7.39 × 10−10 and 1‐3.13 × 10−28, respectively. The phylogenetic analyses indicated that Ha Hlai is a Tai‐Kadai language‐speaking and relatively isolated population which has a close genetic and geographical relationship with Hainan Hlai, and M95 is the dominant haplogroup in Ha Hlai (56.18%). Conclusion The 23 autosomal STR genetic markers were highly polymorphic as well as potentially useful for forensic applications in Hainan Ha Hlai population. The phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that small geographic scale gene flows could not be ignored and the shaping of the unique gene pool for each population was the combination effects of geographic, language, and cultural isolations.

This data article provides population frequencies for 21 autosomal and two sex determining short tandem repeat (STR) loci in unrelated Kedayan individuals. This article is related to the research paper entitled “Forensic parameters and ancestral fraction in the Kedayan population inferred using 21 autosomal STR loci” [1] where these same data were subjected to ancestry and forensic analyses. We have collected 200 blood samples consisting of 128 male and 72 female volunteer representatives from Kedayan people residing in various parts of Borneo. All 23 STR loci were simultaneously amplified using Globalfiler™ Express PCR and amplicons were separated using an ABI 3500xl Genetic Analyzer. The STR allele calls at each locus were called using GeneMapperⓇ ID-X Software v1.4, while several algorithms in Arlequin software version 3.5 were used to estimate Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) and linkage disequilibrium (LD) between pairs of STR loci.

Aim: We investigated the frequencies of 15 autosomal STR loci in the Kazak population of the Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture with the aim of expanding the available population information in human genetic databases and for forensic DNA analysis. Subjects and methods: Genetic polymorphisms of 15 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci were analysed in 456 individuals of the Kazak population from Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, northwestern China. Results: A total of 173 alleles at 15 autosomal STR loci were found; the allele frequencies ranged from 0.5022–0.0011. The combined power of discrimination and exclusion statistics for the 15 STR loci were 0.999 999 999 85 and 0.999 998 800 65, respectively. In addition, phylogenetic analysis involving the Ili Uygur population and other relevant populations was carried out. A neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were generated based on Nei’s standard genetic distance. Conclusions: Results of the population comparison indicated that the Ili Uygur population was most closely related genetically to the Uygur populations from other regions in China. These findings are consistent with the historical and geographic backgrounds of these populations.

Background: Hainan Island, located in the South China Sea and separated from the Leizhou Peninsula by Qiongzhou Strait, is the second largest island after Taiwan in China. With the expansion of Han Chinese and the gradual formation of "South Hlai and North Han", nowadays, Hainan Hlai is the second largest population after Han Chinese in Hainan Island. Ha Hlai, distributed in southwest and southern Hainan Island, is the dominant branch of Hlai and speaks Ha localism. Methods: We utilized the Huaxia™ Platinum PCR Amplification System (including 23 autosomal STRs and 2 sex‐linked markers) to obtain the first STR profiling batch of 657 Ha Hlai individuals (497 males and 160 females). In order to explore the genetic relationships between the studied Ha Hlai and other reference populations with different language families, population genetic analyses, including PCA, MDS, STRUCTURE, and phylogenetic analysis, were conducted based upon the raw data and allelic frequencies of the polymorphic autosomal STR markers. Results: In total, 271 distinct alleles were observed at the 23 STR loci. The number of diverse alleles ranged from 7 at TPOX locus to 23 at FGA locus, and the allelic frequencies varied from 0.0008 to 0.5533. In addition, the CPE and CPD were 1‐7.39 × 10−10 and 1‐3.13 × 10−28, respectively. The phylogenetic analyses indicated that Ha Hlai is a Tai‐Kadai language‐speaking and relatively isolated population which has a close genetic and geographical relationship with Hainan Hlai, and M95 is the dominant haplogroup in Ha Hlai (56.18%). Conclusion: The 23 autosomal STR genetic markers were highly polymorphic as well as potentially useful for forensic applications in Hainan Ha Hlai population. The phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that small geographic scale gene flows could not be ignored and the shaping of the unique gene pool for each population was the combination effects of geographic, language, and cultural isolations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ABO blood group is considered to be one of the most important markers in forensic testing. Additionally, autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping continues to be recognized as the dominant technique for determination of human identity, and Y chromosome STR (Y-STR) analysis is becoming increasingly important in solving criminal cases. In this paper, we describe an integrated amplification system of ABO, autosomal STR, and Y-STR genotyping in a single reaction. This system allows for the simultaneous detection of 18 autosomal STR loci (13 Combined DNA Index System [CODIS] loci, as well as D2S1338, D6S1043, D12S391, Penta D, and Penta E), the ABO blood group locus, the Y-STR locus DYS391, and the sex-determining amelogenin locus. Primers were designed and optimized for amplicon sizes from 80–420 bp using a five-dye fluorescent design with the fifth dye reserved for the internal size standard. Sensitivity assays resulted in successful amplification of genomic DNA in the range of 0.250–2.000 ng. A total of 90 individuals from the Chinese Han population were studied using the system and forensic genetic data are presented. We conclude that this integrated system could be an updated and improved solution for forensic DNA analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Genetic diversity and forensic efficacy of 20 autosomal STR genetic markers were investigated in a highly diverse population of Rajasthan, a state in north-western India. Subjects and methods: In this study, 317 blood samples from unrelated healthy individuals were directly amplified using the PowerPlex® 21 multiplex system (Promega). Amplified products were separated by capillary electrophoresis using a Genetic Analyser –3500 XL (Thermo Fisher Scientific). The data thus obtained was statistically analysed using population genetic software. Results: The studied population showed genetic affinity with the geographically close populations. The locus Penta-E was found to be the most polymorphic with a value of 0.90 in the studied population. The combined discrimination power (CPD) and combined power of exclusion (CPE) were observed as >0.999999999 and 0.999999997, respectively, for all the studied 20 autosomal STR loci. The combined probability of match (CPm) was 1.39 × 10−25 and combined paternity index (CPI) was 3.66 × 108 for all the studied loci. Conclusion: The results conclusively support the hypothesis that the studied autosomal STR loci are polymorphic in nature and, besides being useful in forensic applications they can also be applied in anthropological and other population genetic studies. This study supports the 'isolation-by-distance' model. Genetic data obtained from this study will enrich the population data bank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) plays a unique role in population comparisons, phylogenetic reconstruction and migration history tracing. This study investigated the frequencies of 17 autosomal STR loci in the Han population from Wuxi, Eastern China, with the aim of expanding the available population information in human genetic databases and for forensic DNA analysis. The genetic polymorphisms of 17 STR loci were analysed in 5358 individuals of the Han population from Wuxi, Eastern China. Population comparisons including genetic distances, the neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were carried out between the Wuxi Han population and different ethnic groups. A total of 777 alleles at 17 autosomal STR loci were observed, with the corresponding allelic frequencies ranging from 0.0001–0.5210. The combined power of discrimination and exclusion for the 17 autosomal STR loci were 0.0000 and 0.000, respectively. Moreover, the phylogenetic analysis was performed between the Wuxi Han population and other relevant populations. The neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were generated based on Nei's standard genetic distance. Population comparisons indicated that the Wuxi Han population had the closest genetic relationship with the Hubei Han population, relative to the other populations, which mirrors the historical and geographical background of the populations compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA analysis from human remains is of immense relevance in missing persons identification and disaster victim identification (DVI). DNA degrades gradually in hard tissues, such as bones and teeth and remains somewhat safe from the effects of high temperature, humidity, pH, geochemical properties of the soil, and microorganisms.. The GlobalFiler™ kit simultaneously amplifies and detects 21 autosomal loci including CODIS extended set of STR loci. The kits was designed to combine all 21 autosomal STR loci along with a novel male specific Y insertion/deletion marker the sex-determining marker, amelogenin. Thus, GlobalFiler™ combines the CODIS extended set of loci and includes seven autosomal STR loci from the expanded European Standard Set of Loci (ESSL). The kit also includes the highly discriminating SE33 locus. The aim of this study was to profile the old skeletal remains using GlobalFiler™ for use in disaster victim identification that were previously profiled using Identifiler Plus kit using 3500 (CE). This study investigated the success rate of short tandem repeat (STR) typing from different types of bone samples and observed a higher STR success rate using GlobalFiler™ PCR kit, which contains more than 10 loci under 220 bp size. Thus, GlobalFiler™ could potentially be a good choice for the limited amounts of degraded DNA obtained from challenging skeletalsamples. The performance of the GlobalFiler™ kit and the profile quality was examined for the degraded bone samples to determine the robustness of genetic profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in massively parallel sequencing (MPS) has become a very promising technology for forensic applications (Børsting and Morling, 2015). In this study Illumina ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep kit was tested to determine if MPS offers a more comprehensive evaluation of degraded samples than the traditional fragment analysis/capillary electrophoresis based method (Athey, 2006). The use of MPS could reduce the analysis time and augment the identification of human remains. In this context we aimed to analyse bone/tooth samples using ForenSeq™ DNA Signature kit. These samples were partially degraded and had given partial profiles with the GlobalFiler™ kit previously. The MPS kit showed that it was highly sensitive, aided in higher allele recovery for STR loci and provides valuable information about biogeographic ancestry, identity and phenotypic features from a single analysis. The work resulted in highly successful amplification and sequencing of 30 degraded bone/teeth samples using MPS method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To estimate population parameters based on allele frequencies obtained for 15 polymorphic autosomal STR loci investigated in caste and tribal populations of central India (n = 419). Methods: Multiplexed PCR amplifications of the 15 Autosomal STR Loci were performed and amplified products were genotyped using multi-capillary electrophoresis on an ABI 3100 genetic analyser. Parameters of population genetics and forensic interest based on the allele frequencies were calculated. Genetic affinity of the studied populations among themselves and with previously reported populations of India was also analysed using distance-based NJ tree and using PCA plot. Results: All the 15 STR loci were highly informative and discriminating, with CPD of 0.999 99. Except for Brahmins and Rajput, all other studied populations were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The only tribe (Gond) population studied showed significant variation with the other four caste populations (Brahmin, Yadav, Rajput and Muslim) studied and formed a cluster with other previously reported tribal populations of India. Nei’s genetic distance based clustering pattern of the NJ tree and the PCA plot showed the same pattern of genetic relationship, i.e. caste and tribal populations formed a distinct cluster. Conclusions: With respect to the distribution of alleles at each STR locus, the studied loci were found to be substantially polymorphic in all the studied populations, indicating good informativeness of all 15 STR markers. The population data generated in this study are useful for forensic, anthropological and demographic studies.

Background: At present, there are no available genetic data on the AGCU EX22 Kit from the Wuhu Han population., Aim: This study investigates the applicability of the AGCU EX22 kit, designed for the Chinese population for forensic analysis and population genetics of the Wuhu Han population., Subjects and Methods: Bloodstains from 1565 unrelated healthy individuals in Wuhu city, Anhui Province, were collected for analysis. The AGCU EX22 kit was used for amplification, and capillary electrophoresis was used to separate the amplification products. Allele frequencies and forensic parameters were determined. The Wuhu Han population was compared to 10 reference populations through genetic distance, a phylogenetic neighbor-joining tree and principal component analysis., Results: In total, 281 alleles and 1187 genotypes were observed. No significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at any locus were found after Bonferroni's correction. The 21 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) genetic markers exhibited high informativeness and polymorphism. The cumulative power of discrimination and power of exclusion were 0.999999999999999999999999913380 and 0.999999996752339, respectively. Population comparisons revealed a genetic affinity between Wuhu Han and southern Han populations, except for the Guangdong Han population, which aligned with the traditional geographical division in China., Conclusion: The AGCU EX22 Kit, containing 21 STR loci, is suitable for forensic application and population genetics studies in the Wuhu Han population.

This study describes autosomal STR profiles of the populations of South and North Afghanistan. A total of 188 unrelated individuals residing north (n = 42) and south (n = 146) of the Hindu Kush Range within the territory of Afghanistan were examined against the background of 54 geographically targeted reference populations from Eurasia and North East Africa. The main objective of this study was to investigate longitudinal gene flow across the Hindu Kush Range and Eurasia. Genetic differentiation tests between North and South Afghanistan generated insignificant genetic differences for all loci. Multidimensional scaling (MDS) plots based on Fst distances and Neighbor-Joining (N-J) analysis indicated genetic affinities between the Afghani groups and Indian/Near East/West Asian populations. Admixture and Structure analyses demonstrate a gradient of genetic continuity within a major east to west cline that includes North and South Afghanistan as intermediate populations. Overall, although Afghanistan is surrounded by a number of natural barriers, instead of an isolated territory, it has been a genetically porous region providing a migrational nexus to the rest of Eurasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Short tandem repeats (STRs) are genetic markers that are more informative than single nucleotide polymorphisms and they are widely used in forensic DNA analysis. Aim: To carry out the genetic analysis of 20 autosomal STR loci in Han individuals of Putian City, Southeast China, to expand the available population information for human genetic databases and forensic analysis. Subjects and methods: Saliva swabs from 1417 unrelated Chinese Han individuals from Putian City of Southeast China were collected and then genotyped using the SureID® 21G Human STR Identification Kit. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis based on the Nei's standard genetic distance was performed between the Han population and other relevant populations based on the shared autosomal STR genotyping. Results: We found 272 alleles among 1417 unrelated individuals and the corresponding allelic frequencies ranged from 0.5409 to 0.0004. The combined power of exclusion (CPE) was 0.999999995514, and the combined power of discrimination (CPD) was 0.9999999999999999999999994061. Population comparison revealed that the Putian Han population makes a cluster with other Han populations from China while showing significant differences when compared with other worldwide populations. Conclusions: Our results found that the SureID® 21G Human STR Identification Kit panel was appropriate for forensic identity testing and paternity testing. Putian Han population had a closer genetic relationship with Han populations from other regions in China, while other minorities like Uighurs and Kazakhs from China showed significant differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: China harbors 56 ethnic groups and Han accounts for >92% of the total Chinese population. We investigated the frequencies of 15 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci in the Han population of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture with the aim of expanding the available population information in human genetics databases and for forensic DNA analysis. Subjects and Methods: We explored the genetic characteristics of 15 autosomal STR loci in 552 unrelated Chinese Han individuals from Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Northwestern China using the AmpFISTR Identifiler PCR Amplification Kit. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis was performed between the Han population and other relevant populations based on the autosomal STR genotyping. The neighbor‐joining tree and principle component analysis were generated based on the Nei's standard genetic distance and allelic frequencies, respectively. Results: A total of 171 alleles were observed among 552 unrelated individuals and allelic frequencies ranged from 0.5145 to 0.0009. The combined power of discrimination and combined power of exclusion of the 15 autosomal STR loci were 0.9999999999999999964 and 0.999998243616671, respectively. Conclusions: Population comparison revealed that the Ili Han population were lining up together with other Han populations in China while showing significant differences from other Chinese and worldwide populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New generation of forensic DNA-typing tools for mixture deconvolution. • Features and applications of emerging forensic biomarkers for the analysis of two and more than two-person mixtures. • DIP-STRs, SNP-STRs, DIP-SNPs and microhaplotypes enhance mixture deconvolution. • Mixture performance of autosomal and Y chromosome STRs and binary/non-binary loci. • Initial MPS mixture analysis investigations of STR, SNP/indel and microhaplotype assays. The deconvolution of DNA mixtures has gathered the attention of forensic DNA scientists for over two decades. To enhance mixture deconvolution capabilities, a new generation of sensitive DNA-typing approaches has been recently proposed. In this review, we describe novel, forensically relevant multi-SNP loci (i.e., microhaplotypes or microhaps), compound markers (i.e. , DIP-STRs, SNP-STRs and DIP-SNPs) and lineage markers (i.e., rapidly mutating Y chromosome STRs) that improve the deconvolution of two and more than two-person mixtures typed using conventional STR, binary and non-binary loci. We explore the features and applications of these emerging molecular biomarkers with respect to their ability to forensically detect same-or-opposite sex donors. Finally, we discuss the impact of initial massively parallel sequencing (MPS) investigations of STR, microhaplotype and SNP/indel assays for DNA mixture profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic polymorphisms of 15 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci were analyzed in 449 individuals of the Uygur population from Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Northwestern China. Phylogenetic analysis was performed among the Ili Uygur population and other relevant populations. The neighbor‐joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were generated based on the Nei's standard genetic distance. We found a total of 173 alleles with corresponding frequencies ranging from 0.5022 to 0.0011. The combined powers of discrimination and exclusion for the 15 autosomal STR loci were 0.99999999985 and 0.99999880065, respectively. Population comparisons indicated that the Ili Uygur population had a relatively close genetic relationship with the Uygur populations from other regions of China. The pairwise genetic distance and P‐values between Ili Uygur and 10 published populations showed that no statistically significant differences existed between the Ili Uygur population and the Kashi, Kashgar, and Kotan Uygur. Therefore, the Ili Uygur population has its own unique Uygur genetic characteristics that were different from the other ethnic populations of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We focused on a sample of 100 unrelated persons from the provinces of southern Iraq. This is an analysis of the allele frequency and genotyping of those STR loci in an Iraqi population and this is the first study of its kind in Iraq. As such the data available could be utilized in the Iraqi database for the STR polymorphic markers. Chelex® kit was utilized to extract DNA then Power Plex21® kit (D3S1358, D13S317, PentaE, D16S539, D18S51, D2S1338, CSF1PO, Penta D, THO1, vWA, D21S11, D7S820, TPOX, D8S1179, FGA, D2S1338, D5S818, D6S1043, D12S391, D19S433) was used to amplify the isolated DNA. The mean PIC values and heterozygosity observed across 21 loci were 0.713 and 0.696, respectively. This shows high gene diversity. Those loci can be safely used to establish a DNA-based database for the Iraqi population because the power of discrimination values for all tested loci was from 71% to 97%.

The Mestizo (admixed) population of the Peninsula of Yucatan (Southeast, México) characterizes by a predominant Native American origin involving the Mayan culture. Autosomal Short tandem repeats (STRs) are the election tool for human identification (HID) purposes, such as forensic casework and paternity testing, among others. Although there are autosomal STR databases for some Mexican populations, the HID kits with more STRs have poorly studied in this country. Therefore, we estimated forensic parameters for 22 autosomal STRs belonging to the PowerPlex® Fusion System Promega kit (Promega, Corp.) in a population sample of 733 Mexican Mestizos subjects from the Peninsula of Yucatán (Southeast, Mexico). Buccal swabs were used as DNA sample for direct PCR multiplex amplification for genotyping PowerPlex® Fusion System Promega kit. Forensic parameters were obtained with Powerstats 1.2 software. Hardy-Weinberg expectations (HWE) were estimated with GDA ver 1.1 software. Gene diversity was estimated with Shannon-Wiener (H') and statistical differences with t -test modified by Hutcheson using Biodiv 5.1 software. Interpopulation comparisons were analyzed with Dice and Rogers-Tanimoto indexes and classification method of Unweighted Pair-Group Method (UPGMA). Genotype distribution was in agreement with HWE (p > 0.001), except for D1S1656. FGA and Penta E were the most polymorphic loci with 32 and 25 different alleles, respectively. Heterozygosity ranged from 0.6112 for D22S1045 to 0.9141 for D1S1656. The most discriminating loci were Penta E (0.9852) and FGA (0.9756). The combined power of discrimination and combined power of exclusion were 1.9093 × 10−26 and 99.9999833%, respectively. Gene diversity ranged from 1.21 for D22S1045 to 2.68 for Penta E. Inter-comparison populations did not show significant differences for gene diversity based on allelic frequencies of 22 studied autosomal STR. Our results provide a STR population dataset that allow confident interpretation of paternity tests and criminal cases carried out with this HID system in the Peninsula of Yucatan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, genetic polymorphisms of 15 autosomal STR loci were obtained from 185 unrelated healthy individuals (86 Hui and 99 Kazakh). No evidence of deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was identified after applying the Bonferroni correction. The combined power of discrimination (CDP) and combined power of exclusion (CPE) of the 15 STR loci in Hui and Kazakh population were both larger than 0.99999999999999995 and 0.9999973, respectively. A Neighbor-Joining (NJ) phylogenetic tree was constructed based on allelic frequencies. It exhibited the closeness of the Hui and Kazakh with the Uyghur. Results suggested that the 15 STR loci had a relatively high genetic variation, which can be utilized for forensic personal identification and paternity testing in Hui and Kazakh population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We investigated the frequencies of 15 autosomal STR loci in the Kazak population of the Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture with the aim of expanding the available population information in human genetic databases and for forensic DNA analysis. Subjects and methods: Genetic polymorphisms of 15 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci were analysed in 456 individuals of the Kazak population from Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, northwestern China. Results: A total of 173 alleles at 15 autosomal STR loci were found; the allele frequencies ranged from 0.5022-0.0011. The combined power of discrimination and exclusion statistics for the 15 STR loci were 0.999 999 999 85 and 0.999 998 800 65, respectively. In addition, phylogenetic analysis involving the Ili Uygur population and other relevant populations was carried out. A neighbour-joining tree and multidimensional scaling plot were generated based on Nei’s standard genetic distance. Conclusions: Results of the population comparison indicated that the Ili Uygur population was most closely related genetically to the Uygur populations from other regions in China. These findings are consistent with the historical and geographic backgrounds of these populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim:To estimate population parameters based on allele frequencies obtained for 15 polymorphic autosomal STR loci investigated in caste and tribal populations of central India (n = 419). Methods:Multiplexed PCR amplifications of the 15 Autosomal STR Loci were performed and amplified products were genotyped using multi-capillary electrophoresis on an ABI 3100 genetic analyser. Parameters of population genetics and forensic interest based on the allele frequencies were calculated. Genetic affinity of the studied populations among themselves and with previously reported populations of India was also analysed using distance-based NJ tree and using PCA plot. Results:All the 15 STR loci were highly informative and discriminating, with CPD of 0.999 99. Except for Brahmins and Rajput, all other studied populations were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The only tribe (Gond) population studied showed significant variation with the other four caste populations (Brahmin, Yadav, Rajput and Muslim) studied and formed a cluster with other previously reported tribal populations of India. Nei’s genetic distance based clustering pattern of the NJ tree and the PCA plot showed the same pattern of genetic relationship, i.e. caste and tribal populations formed a distinct cluster. Conclusions:With respect to the distribution of alleles at each STR locus, the studied loci were found to be substantially polymorphic in all the studied populations, indicating good informativeness of all 15 STR markers. The population data generated in this study are useful for forensic, anthropological and demographic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The next-generation sequencing (NGS) method has been utilized to analyze short tandem repeat (STR) markers, which are routinely used for human identification purposes in the forensic field. Some researchers have demonstrated the successful application of the NGS system to STR typing, suggesting that NGS technology may be an alternative or additional method to overcome limitations of capillary electrophoresis (CE)-based STR profiling. However, there has been no available multiplex PCR system that is optimized for NGS analysis of forensic STR markers. Thus, we constructed a multiplex PCR system for the NGS analysis of 18 markers (13CODIS STRs, D2S1338, D19S433, Penta D, Penta E and amelogenin) by designing amplicons in the size range of 77–210 base pairs. Then, PCR products were generated from two single-sources, mixed samples and artificially degraded DNA samples using a multiplex PCR system, and were prepared for sequencing on the MiSeq system through construction of a subsequent barcoded library. By performing NGS and analyzing the data, we confirmed that the resultant STR genotypes were consistent with those of CE-based typing. Moreover, sequence variations were detected in targeted STR regions. Through the use of small-sized amplicons, the developed multiplex PCR system enables researchers to obtain successful STR profiles even from artificially degraded DNA as well as STR loci which are analyzed with large-sized amplicons in the CE-based commercial kits. In addition, successful profiles can be obtained from mixtures up to a 1:19 ratio. Consequently, the developed multiplex PCR system, which produces small size amplicons, can be successfully applied to STR NGS analysis of forensic casework samples such as mixtures and degraded DNA samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At an average altitude of 4000 m above sea level, the Tibetan plateau is one of the highest plains on the planet. It is surrounded on three sides by massive mountain ranges: the Kunlun, the Karakoram and the Himalayas. These natural barriers have kept Tibet relatively isolated. In the present study, 15 autosomal STR loci were genotyped in 338 unrelated individuals from three traditional provinces of historical Tibet: Amdo (86), Kham (101) and U-Tsang (151). All the studied loci were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium except for the D19S433 locus in the Kham province. FGA, D21S11 and D2S1338 show the highest observed heterozygosity values in Amdo (0.8954), Kham (0.9208) and U-Tsang (0.8940), respectively, whereas TPOX is the least variable marker displaying the lowest value for the same parameter. U-Tsang exhibits the highest total numbers of alleles (139) followed by Kham (130) and Amdo (128) groups. The allele frequency data from this study were compared to relevant global reference populations. Our results indicate that although these three Tibetan populations group together in both the Correspondence Analysis (CA) plot and the Neighbor Joining (NJ) tree, they exhibit some degree of genetic differentiation among themselves congruent with their unique dialects, cultures and traditions. The 15 autosomal STR loci studied were found to be informative and discriminating, thereby providing a useful set of markers for population genetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Genotypic polymorphism studies at 15 highly polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) loci were carried out in Bhil tribal population of Madhya Pradesh, in central region of India. Methods: The analysis of 15 autosomal STR loci (TH01, D3S1358, vWA, D21S11, TPOX, D7S820, D19S433, D5S818, D2S1338, D16S539, CSF1PO, D13S317, FGA, D18S51, D8S1179) was done in 183 unrelated individuals of the Bhil tribe. Results: Heterozygosity among the studied 15 autosomal STR loci ranged from 63.5–86.5%. The loci D2S1338 and FGA were found to be mostly polymorphic. All loci fall under Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, except loci D18S51 and D7S820. These STR loci were highly informative and discriminating, with CPD > 0.99999. Conclusion: The clustering pattern of the NJ tree and the PCA plot showed grouping of the Bhil population with previously reported tribes of central India. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: We focused on a sample of 100 unrelated persons from the provinces of southern Iraq. This is an analysis of the allele frequency and genotyping of those STR loci in an Iraqi population and this is the first study of its kind in Iraq. As such the data available could be utilized in the Iraqi database for the STR polymorphic markers. Chelex® kit was utilized to extract DNA then Power Plex21® kit (D3S1358, D13S317, PentaE, D16S539, D18S51, D2S1338, CSF1PO, Penta D, THO1, vWA, D21S11, D7S820, TPOX, D8S1179, FGA, D2S1338, D5S818, D6S1043, D12S391, D19S433) was used to amplify the isolated DNA. The mean PIC values and heterozygosity observed across 21 loci were 0.713 and 0.696, respectively. This shows high gene diversity. Those loci can be safely used to establish a DNA-based database for the Iraqi population because the power of discrimination values for all tested loci was from 71% to 97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]