- Course Introduction
- 01: Evidence & DNA
- 02: Forensic Biology
- 03: DNA Extraction & Quantitation
- 04: DNA Amplification
- 05: Amplified DNA Product Separation
- 06: STR Data Analysis & Interpretation
- Data Troubleshooting
- Data Interpretation & Allele Calls
President's DNA Initiative
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Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
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Advancing Justice Through DNA Technology
DNA Analyst Training
Spurious Peaks
Home > STR Data Analysis & Interpretation > Data Troubleshooting > Spurious Peaks
Chemistry and instrument-related issues can lead to spurious peaks. Spurious peaks, also referred to as artifacts, include dye blobs, spikes, and noise; they may be difficult to differentiate from alleles.
In general, spurious peaks are not reproducible. Samples can be reinjected to determine whether suspected artifacts are reproducible or analysts can rely on their professional experience to differentiate alleles from spurious peaks.
