Title:

Multiplexing for simple sequence repeats for use with degraded DNA

The overarching goal of my research is to develop a better approach to DNA-based forensic analysis; specifically, to establish a single reaction that can identify 20 informative regions in human DNA. I am focusing on the repetitive regions that the FBI uses when trying to identify individuals and aiming to make the target regions as short as possible. Currently, I am working to identify each repeat individually, and then I will begin identifying many at once. After the reaction is optimized, I will test it on samples that mimic forensic samples, such as degraded DNA and comingled DNA. My research is unique in that it uses Next-Generation sequencing and combines many informative regions into one reaction. A simplified process may lead to quicker identification of suspects and victims in forensic settings. Additionally, shortening the target regions may allow for identification of poor-quality samples, which could increase the diversity of samples that can be investigated. Here I will present the goals of my research as well as preliminary results.

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