Forensic DNA Profiling Protocols: (98 Methods in Molecular Biology)

Leading forensic experts from around the world describe in detail their time-proven methods for identity testing through DNA analysis. Their state-of-the-art collection of easily reproducible methods includes all of the major techniques of DNA analysis currently used in forensic identity testing. The book covers PCR- based test systems, the now widely used STR typing systems (complete with details of both manual and automated detection systems), repeat unit mapping (MVR), direct phase minisequencing, capillary electrophoresis, and direct blotting. Also fully discussed are the recovery of DNA from a wide range of sample types (blood, semen, skeletal remains, and saliva), species testing, sex determination, and mitochondrial DNA testing. This state-of-the-art collection of easily reproducible methods includes all of the major techniques of DNA analysis currently used in forensic identity testing. The methods include the recovery of DNA from a large range of sample types, analysis of DNA as single and multi-locus VNTR probes, PCR amplification of STR and other loci, and mitochondrial sequencing. The expert scientists writing here-many from laboratories around the world-also discuss how to interpret the results in cases of unknown identity and disputed parentage.

Table of Contents:
Recovery of High-Molecular-Weight DNA from Blood and Forensic Specimens.- Recovery of DNA for PCR Amplification from Blood and Forensic Samples Using a Chelating Resin.- PCR Analysis of DNA from Fresh and Decomposed Bodies and Skeletal Remains in Medicolegal Death Investigations.- PCR Analysis from Cigaret Butts, Postage Stamps, Envelope Sealing Flaps, and Other Saliva-Stained Material.- Quantification of DNA By Slot-Blot Analysis.- Rapid Assessment of PCR Product Quality and Quantity by Capillary Electrophoresis.- Southern Blotting of Genomic DNA for DNA Profiling.- Preparation and Use of Alkaline-Phosphatase-Conjugated Oligonucleotide Probes for Single-Locus and Multilocus VNTR Analysis.- Preparation and Use of 32P-Labeled Single-Locus VNTR Probes in Identity Testing.- Statistical Methods Employed in Evaluation of Single-Locus Probe Results in Criminal Identity Cases.- Interpretation and Statistical Evaluation of Multilocus DNA Fingerprints in Paternity and Relationship Testing.- Overview of PCR-Based Systems in Identity Testing.- An Introduction to PCR Primer Design and Optimization of Amplification Reactions.- Analysis of Amplified Fragment-Length Polymorphisms (VNTR/STR Loci) for Human Identity Testing.- Amplification of Short Tandem Repeat Loci Using PCR.- Manual Electrophoretic Methods for Genotyping Amplified STR Loci.- 17 Genotyping STR Loci Using an Automated DNA Sequencer.- Separation of PCR Fragments by Means of Direct Blotting Electrophoresis.- 19 Amplification and Sequencing of Mitochondrial DNA in Forensic Casework.- Minisatellite Variant Repeat Unit Mapping Using PCR (MVR-PCR).- Sex Determination by PCR Analysis of the X-Y Amelogenin Gene.- Species Determination by Analysis of the Cytochrome b Gene.- Use of the AmpliType PM + HLA DQA1 PCR Amplification and Typing Kits for Identity Testing.- The Use of Capillary Electrophoresis in Genotyping STR Loci.- Solid-Phase Minisequencing as a Tool to Detect DNA Polymorphism.

Review :
"For the first time the major laboratory procedures used in human identification are brought together in one book. . .contains much valuable information."-Journal of the Forensic Science Society