- 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
- 07: Population Genetics & Statistics
- 08: Communicating Results
- 09: Other DNA Markers & Technologies
- Course Resources
- Laboratory Training Manual
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
SNPs in Forensic Genetics
Home > Other DNA Markers & Technologies > Other Nuclear DNA Markers and Technologies > SNPs > SNPs in Forensic Genetics
Theoretically, the advantages of a SNP-based system include:
- Potential for automation
- Ability to analyze degraded DNA (with a number average molecular weight equivalent to the sum of the lengths of the two primers)
- Direct interrogation of genes whose variants have predictive consequences for a phenotypic trait
Disadvantages include:
- Difficulties with body fluid mixture detection and analysis
- Requirement for large numbers of individual SNPs
- Uncertainties about the availability and robustness of appropriate multiplex-capable analytical platforms
It is not likely that SNP typing will replace STRs as the principal method for human identification, but there are specialized instances in which their use is warranted.
SNPs were the basis of the variation of the ABO and isoenzyme classic genetic markers used prior to the DNA revolution in forensic biology; the pre-DNA detection technology was based upon antigens and proteins.
Click here to read more about ABO and enzymes in Subject 02, Module 02.
The first generation of PCR-based forensic kits employed the HLA DQAlpha1 and PM systems, which comprised a series of SNP markers detected by allele specific oligonucleotide hybridization using a reverse dot blot format.
Click here to read more about HLA DQAlpha1 and PM systems in Subject 01, Module 02.
